Shin splints is in the top five most common injuries seen by sports medicine specialists. Most often seen in runners, it\u2019s a condition characterized by sharp pain on the inside or front of the shin. The area may feel tender to the touch, become swollen, and symptoms can intensify during or after sports or activities. At first, the condition may cause mild discomfort at the time of activity or may result in an ache the following morning.<\/p>\n
The condition isn\u2019t exclusive to runners \u2013 it\u2019s frequently seen in dancers and members of the military. It\u2019s the result of inflammation that occurs when the muscles and connective tissues attached to the shin bone are stretched or pulled. Shin splints are typically caused by poor foot posture, a biomechanical problem, or running on hard surfaces. It can also occur after a sudden increase in training, the duration of activity, or insufficient training.<\/p>\n
Shin splints are a repetitive motion injury that\u2019s painful and requires prompt treatment. In the early stages, the discomfort typically disappears when the offending activity is stopped, but the pain can become continuous. Individuals are at increased risk if:
\n– They\u2019re runners
\n– Starting a new exercise or training program
\n– Increase the intensity, duration or frequency of exercise or running activities
\n– Have flat feet or high arches
\n– Run on hard surfaces or uneven terrain
\n– Don\u2019t use appropriate footwear
\n– Have improper gait or running techniques<\/p>\n