| Shin splints | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS),[1] soleus syndrome,[2] tibial stress syndrome,[2] periostitis[2] |
 | |
| Red area represents the tibia. Pain is generally in the inner and lower 2/3rds of tibia. | |
| Specialty | Sports medicine |
| Symptoms | Pain along the inside edge of the shinbone[1] |
| Complications | Stress fracture[2] |
| Risk factors | Runners, dancers, military personnel[2] |
| Diagnostic method | Based on symptoms, medical imaging[2] |
| Differential diagnosis | Stress fracture, tendinitis, exertional compartment syndrome[1] |
| Treatment | Rest with gradual return to exercise[1][2] |
| Prognosis | Good[2] |
| Frequency | 4% to 35% (at-risk groups)[2] |
A shin splint, also known as medial tibial stress syndrome, is pain along the inside edge of the shinbone (tibia) due to inflammation of tissue in the area.[1] Generally this is between the middle of the lower leg and the ankle.[2] The pain may be dull or sharp, and is generally brought on by high-impact exercise that overloads the tibia.[1] It generally resolves during periods of rest.[3] Complications may include stress fractures.[2]
Shin splints typically occur due to excessive physical activity.[1] Groups that are commonly affected include runners, dancers, gymnasts, and military personnel.[2] The underlying mechanism is not entirely clear.[2] Diagnosis is generally based on the symptoms, with medical imaging done to rule out other possible causes.[2]
Shin splints are generally treated by rest followed by a gradual return to exercise over a period of weeks.[1][2][3] Other measures such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), cold packs, physical therapy, and compression may be used.[1][2] Shoe insoles may help some people.[1] Surgery is rarely required, but may be done if other measures are not effective.[2] Rates of shin splints in at-risk groups range from 4% to 35%.[2] The condition occurs more often in women.[2] It was first described in 1958.[2]
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j Alaia, Michael J. (August 2019). "Shin Splints". OrthoInfo. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Retrieved 15 November 2020.
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t Reshef, N; Guelich, DR (April 2012). "Medial tibial stress syndrome". Clinics in Sports Medicine. 31 (2): 273–290. doi:10.1016/j.csm.2011.09.008. PMID 22341017. S2CID 262469440.
- ^ a b Cite error: The named reference
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