How to Manage "Shin Splints" or Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome
By: Emilia Kubera-Shelton, DPT
Bowie Location
This syndrome is prevalent and characterized by pain along the inside of the shin bone (tibia) and usually happens due to overuse when involved in high-impact activities, such as running, or jumping. Females, military members, people with flat feet, and or obesity are more predisposed to this problem but it can also happen to anybody with an inappropriate training routine.
If left untreated medial tibial stress syndrome can lead to tibia stress fractures and more permanent injury.
How to Manage MTSS
It is always a good idea to check with your physical therapist if you experience MTSS. Your therapist will get to the bottom of the problem rather than just treat the symptoms. You can expect the therapist to check your body mechanics, strength, flexibility, and talk to you about proper footwear or orthotics, and most importantly the training schedule.
Once pain resolves the focus will be on getting you back to sport. It is important to work with a therapist who is comfortable with talking to your coach and creating a strategic and gradual plan to return to activity beyond therapy. Chances are that if you just get back to sport with no guidance the symptoms will return, and you will be back on the sidelines with the same problem.
