Shin splints

Diagnosis

Shin splints could be diagnosed by the following:

• Physical examination: Healthcare provider will conduct physical assessment and obtain medical history of the patient. They will evaluate the lower leg, ankle, and foot as well as the gait and walking style. Moving the ankle and foot and feeling for soreness along the bone are all part of a thorough examination. To determine if shin splints or a stress fracture may be present, standing on the afflicted leg or hopping on that leg may be helpful.
• Imaging test: If necessary, imaging studies like X-rays may be used to investigate the source of your discomfort and identify other potential reasons for your pain, such as a stress fracture. A doctor may request a bone scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Due to the fact that these tests detect the damage before an X-ray, they enable the healthcare provider to determine whether the shin splint has developed into a stress fracture.

Treatment

The muscles and bones need time to recover if the patient wants to get rid of their symptoms. Basic self-care measures help to cure shin splints:

• Rest: Avoid any actions that result in pain, swelling or discomfort. Try low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling, or water running during the process of healing.
• Ice: For several days, apply cold compress to the injured shin for at least four to eight times per day for 15 to 20 minutes at a time. Wrap the ice packs in a thin towel to prevent damage to the skin.
• Over-the-counter medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs) are available over-the-counter and can reduce swelling and pain. Examples include naproxen sodium and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, and other).
• Supplements: A daily dose of 1000 – 2000 IU of vitamin D3 may be beneficial. Talk to the healthcare provider about supplements.
• Supportive shoes: Shoe inserts (orthotics) can effectively relieve the pain of shin splints in those with flat feet. By supporting the arches, orthotics ease the strain on the bones and muscles in the lower legs.
• Physical therapy: Therapy can be beneficial, particularly when helping someone get back into running.

Start out slowly when deciding to get active again and gradually increase the intensity level to lower the chance of getting shin splints again.