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Tibial Tendinitis - Shin Splints
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Shin splints is a term used to describe pain in the front of the lower leg, between the knee and the ankle.
What is going on in the body?
The term shin splints refers to the pain in the lower leg. This pain can be caused by a number of factors, including the following:
What are the causes and risks of the condition?
Shin splints are generally caused by some form of vigorous athletic activity. They can result from overtraining during an exercise program. When the person exercises often without proper conditioning, the lower leg is unable to withstand the chronic stress. People who do sprinting or long-distance running are at risk for shin splints. Activities that involve sudden starts, stops, and jumps also increase the risk for shin splints. These include:
Symptoms & Signs
What are the signs and symptoms of the condition?
Shin splints are described as very intense aching pain in the lower leg. If the person has a stress fracture, he or she may experience swelling and weakness of the lower leg.
Diagnosis & Tests
How is the condition diagnosed?
Diagnosis of shin splints begins with a medical history and physical exam. The healthcare provider may order X-rays or a bone scan to detect stress fractures.
Prevention & Expectations
What can be done to prevent the condition?
Following are some measures to prevent shin splints.
What are the long-term effects of the condition?
Most of the time, shin splints cause only mild, temporary pain. Occasionally, the individual may have a permanent disabling injury.
What are the risks to others?
Shin splints are not contagious and pose no risk to others.
Treatment & Monitoring
What are the treatments for the condition?
Treatment of shin splints should start with decreasing daily activity levels. Other helpful measures are as follows:
What are the side effects of the treatments?
NSAIDs may cause stomach upset or allergic reactions.
What happens after treatment for the condition?
After treatment, the individual should continue to follow preventive measures to avoid a recurrence of the shin splints.
How is the condition monitored?
Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.
Attribution
Author:Bill O'Halloran, DPM
Date Written:
Editor:Ballenberg, Sally, BS
Edit Date:07/30/01
Reviewer:Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN
Date Reviewed:06/26/01