If you’ve ever felt a sharp or aching pain along your shin bone during or after exercise, you might be dealing with shin splints. This common condition affects athletes, runners, and anyone with an active lifestyle.
At Precision Orthopaedic Specialties, we specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions like shin splints to keep you moving pain-free. Contact one of our convenient locations in Northeastern Ohio today to schedule an appointment!
Shin splints refer to pain along the inner part of the lower leg, specifically near the tibia, or shin bone. The medical term for this condition is medial tibial stress syndrome. It occurs when repeated stress on the shin bone and surrounding muscles leads to inflammation, discomfort, and sometimes mild swelling. Shin splints develop most often in runners, dancers, and athletes who engage in high-impact activities.
The most common symptoms of shin splints include:
Some people describe what shin splints feel like as a deep aching or burning sensation along the shin bone. If the pain persists or worsens, it could indicate a more serious injury, such as a stress fracture.
Several factors contribute to developing shin splints, including:
Doctors typically diagnose shin splints based on a physical exam and discussion of your symptoms. During your visit, your provider will assess your lower leg for tenderness and swelling.
In some cases, imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs may be used to rule out more serious conditions such as a stress fracture. If you need shin splints diagnosed, seeking care from a specialist in sports medicine can ensure you get the right treatment.
The best way to treat shin splints is by giving your legs time to heal. Treatment options include:
At Precision Orthopaedic Specialties, our team provides expert care to help you recover from shin splints and get back to your exercise routine safely.
To prevent shin splints, consider the following strategies:
If you’re prone to shin splints, working with a sports medicine specialist can help you correct form, strengthen key muscles, and avoid future injuries.
Shin splints can be frustrating, but with the right care, you can recover and keep doing the activities you love. Whether you need to diagnose shin splints, find the best way to treat shin splints, or learn how to prevent shin splints, our team at Precision Orthopaedic Specialties is here to help.
Schedule an appointment at one of our locations in Chardon, Chagrin Falls, or Middlefield, OH, and let us help you stay active and pain-free!
Medically reviewed by Jamie DelVecchio, D.O.
Physicians
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Precision Orthopaedic Specialties is a leading provider of orthopaedic surgery, sports medicine, podiatry, physical therapy, athletic training, and state-of-the-art medical imaging including MRI.