Prevention and Treatment of Shin Splints in Young Runners

In athletes, shin splints and stress fractures are typically a result of repetitive motion injury in one or more supportive muscles n the lower leg. Very often these muscles work without ever fully recovering before being asked to perform again. All athletes use similar muscles as they participate in sport specific movements, and runners are subjected to this same scenario. Unfortunately, young runners seem to have lower leg problems more frequently than older runners—probably a result of growing and having a musculoskeletal system that is not yet fully developed.

A thorough history should be taken to determine pre-existing conditions, prior traumas or any other influencing factors. The soles and heels of the shoes should be compared for even wear. Any shoe imbalance suggests a biomechanical defect somewhere in the structure. The examination and X-rays should isolate specific biomechanical defects in an individual. Heredity often will contribute to specific injuries in people, and should be considered at this time.

If an exam is done pre-season, before any injuries have occurred, then a balancing program to improve the imbalances should be designed. Custom-made flexible orthotics are recommended to help balance the individual, as well as to provide shock absorption. Look for extra shock-absorbing material in the heel of the orthotic to reduce the amount of stress transferred up the leg of the athlete, reduce the likelihood of injury to the muscles or joints.

Goals:

Prevention and Treatment of Shin Splints

Activity:

Running

Put the athlete into custom-made flexible orthotics for support, symmetry of the arches, and shock absorption.

Ice treatments should occur 4–5 times per day, with a wrap around the involved area. 

A deep pressure massage needs to be done multiple times per day to this involved muscle.

Get shoes appropriate for the athlete’s foot type. If there is pronation, motion control shoes are needed. If the foot type is neutral, then stability shoes are indicated, and if the foot type is supinator, then cushioned shoes are recommended.

A conditioning program should be recommended to all athletes with shin splints. This will encourage full spine joint mobility, improved muscle flexibility and an improved overall balance of the structure.

Therapeutic ankle exercises