Shin splints, also known as medial tibial stress syndrome, are a common injury that affects the lower leg. They occur when the muscles and tendons around the tibia, or shinbone, become inflamed due to overuse or improper form during physical activity. Shin splints are common in runners, dancers, and athletes who participate in sports that involve repetitive impact on the lower legs.
Our Whitby Physiotherapists are able to detect and be an effective treatment option for shin splints. The goal of our physiotherapists is to reduce pain and inflammation, improve muscle strength and flexibility, and prevent the condition from recurring.
The first step at Central Health Rehab is to identify any underlying causes of shin splints, such as improper form or inadequate footwear. Once these have been addressed, the physiotherapist will work with the patient to develop a personalized treatment plan. This may include a combination of stretching and strengthening exercises, ice therapy, and manual therapy techniques such as massage and joint mobilizations.
Stretching exercises are important in improving flexibility in the lower leg muscles and tendons. These may include stretches for the calf muscles, as well as the muscles and tendons in the front and back of the shin. Strengthening exercises, on the other hand, help to improve muscle strength and support the lower leg. These may include exercises such as calf raises or leg press.
Ice therapy can be used to reduce pain and inflammation in the lower leg. Ice packs or cold compresses can be applied to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day. It is important to wrap the ice pack in a towel to prevent frostbite.
Manual therapy techniques, such as massage and joint mobilizations, can help to improve mobility and reduce pain in the lower leg. Massage can help to relax tight muscles and improve blood flow, while joint mobilizations involve gentle movements of the joint to improve range of motion.
Recovery from shin splints can take several weeks to a few months, depending on the severity of the injury. It is important to be consistent with physiotherapy treatment and follow the prescribed exercises and stretches in order to achieve the best results. It is also important to avoid activities that may put too much strain on the lower legs, as this can delay recovery.
In summary, at Central Health Rehab our physiotherapy is an effective treatment option for shin splints. It involves a combination of stretching, strengthening, ice therapy, and manual therapy techniques to reduce pain and inflammation, improve muscle strength and flexibility, and prevent the condition from recurring. Recovery from shin splints can take several weeks to a few months and it is important to be consistent with treatment and avoid activities that may strain the lower legs.
