Conquer Shin Splints and Rediscover the Joy of Running!

Shin splints, also known as medial tibial stress syndrome, can be a source of significant discomfort for individuals, especially runners who have recently changed or intensified their training routines. The condition is characterised by pain along the front of the shinbone, resulting from repetitive stress on the tibia and the connective tissues that attach muscles to the bone.

Ignoring shin splints can have long-term consequences, including the risk of developing a stress fracture in the shin. Seeking timely treatment and addressing the contributing factors are crucial to ensure a successful recovery. At The Urban Physio, we prioritise prompt care and comprehensive rehabilitation to help you overcome shin splints and get back to your active lifestyle.

Understanding the Cause:

Shin splints often occur due to sudden changes in training intensity, frequency, or running surface. Individuals who have recently resumed intense exercise after a period of inactivity are also susceptible to developing shin splints. Biomechanical factors such as flat feet or high arches, poor-quality footwear, muscular imbalances, and body weight can also contribute to the development of shin splints. By identifying and addressing these underlying causes, we can effectively reduce the risk of future episodes.

Reducing the Risk:

To minimize the risk of shin splints, it is important to take proactive measures:

• Choose proper footwear: Running in well-fitting shoes that provide adequate support and cushioning can significantly reduce the stress on your shins.
• Consider orthotics or inner soles: Depending on your foot structure, orthotics or inner soles may be recommended to provide additional support to the arch of your foot, helping to distribute forces evenly and reduce strain on the shins.
• Gradual training progression: Introduce changes to your training gradually over time, allowing your body to adapt to the increased demands. Avoid sudden spikes in intensity or frequency, which can place excessive stress on the shins.
• Vary running surfaces: Constantly running on hard surfaces like concrete can exacerbate shin splints. Incorporating different surfaces, such as grass or trails, can help reduce the repetitive stress on your shins.

Comprehensive Care at The Urban Physio:

When it comes to treating shin splints, our experienced team at The Urban Physio offers comprehensive care tailored to your specific needs. Here's what you can expect:

• Consultation and diagnosis: Our skilled physios will assess your condition and provide a diagnosis. Understanding the root cause of your shin splints is essential for effective treatment.
• Rest and icing: In some cases, resting and icing the affected area may be necessary to reduce inflammation and allow the shin to heal. We will guide you on the appropriate duration and techniques for optimal recovery.
• Muscle strengthening: Strengthening the muscles around the shin and lower leg is a crucial aspect of rehabilitation. We will design a personalised exercise program that focuses on improving biomechanics, enhancing muscle strength, and promoting proper movement patterns.
• Gradual return to activity: We will guide you through a gradual reintroduction to physical activity, ensuring that you progress at a safe pace that aligns with your body's capabilities and healing process.
• Running biomechanics analysis: Our physios can assess your running technique and provide guidance on improving your biomechanics. Making adjustments to your form and stride can help alleviate stress on the shins and reduce the likelihood of future shin splints.

Don't let shin splints hinder your active lifestyle. Contact us at The Urban Physio today to book an appointment with one of our experienced physios. We are dedicated to helping you recover from shin splints and regain the joy of pain-free physical activity.