Shin splints, or medial tibial stress syndrome, are common injuries in track and field athletes, particularly those involved in running events. This condition is characterized by pain along the tibia, typically on the inner part of the lower leg, and can severely impact an athlete’s performance if not properly managed. Understanding the structures involved and effective treatments is essential for preventing and rehabilitating shin splints, ensuring athletes can return to competition as quickly and safely as possible.
Shin splints result from repetitive stress on the structures in the lower leg, particularly the muscles, tendons, and bones surrounding the tibia. The primary muscles involved are the tibialis anterior and posterior, which help control foot movement and provide stability during running. Overuse or poor mechanics can cause these muscles to become overstressed, leading to inflammation and pain.
Additionally, imbalances or weakness in the peroneal muscles and the gastrocnemius and soleus along the lower leg can contribute to discomfort. The tendons and fascia that connect the muscles to the tibia can also become strained from repetitive activity, further aggravating the condition. Lastly, repeated impact during running can cause micro-tears in the tibia, worsening the pain.
Physical Therapy for Shin Splints: Treatment & Rehabilitation
Physical therapy plays a crucial role in both treating and preventing shin splints. Effective treatments focus on reducing pain, improving biomechanics, and strengthening the musculature to prevent further injury. Initially, rest and activity modification is essential to reduce muscle, tendon, and bone inflammation. Physical therapists usually recommend reducing or modifying activity to avoid aggravating the condition. Low-impact exercises such as swimming or cycling can maintain cardiovascular fitness while minimizing stress on the shins.
Manual therapy techniques, such as soft tissue mobilization and massage, often reduce muscle tension and promote healing. For shin splints, physical therapists focus on releasing tension in the musculature of the lower leg, which can improve blood flow, reduce inflammation, restore muscle flexibility, and improve joint mobility. Additionally, stretching and strengthening exercises are crucial to address any impairments contributing to shin splints.
Stretching exercises for the calves, hamstrings, glutes, and tibialis anterior can alleviate muscle tension and improve mobility. Strengthening exercises for the lower legs, including eccentric exercises for the tibialis anterior and posterior, as well as foot intrinsic strengthening, help reduce muscle imbalance and stabilize the ankle and foot while in contact with the ground. These exercises often involve resistance bands, dumbbells, or exercises to build muscle endurance.
Biomechanical Assessment & Gait Training
Many cases of shin splints are linked to poor running mechanics, such as overstriding or improper foot positioning. Physical therapists conduct a detailed biomechanical assessment to identify abnormal movement patterns that may be contributing to the injury. Gait training, which involves adjusting running form and foot strikes, is a key part of rehabilitation. For example, focusing on proper hip and knee alignment or reducing excessive heel strikes can help alleviate stress on the shins.
Footwear and orthotics also play a critical role in managing shin splints. Physical therapists may recommend custom orthotics or shoe inserts to correct foot alignment, provide additional support, and help distribute pressure more evenly, reducing stress on the tibia.
Length and Frequency of Physical Therapy
The length and frequency of physical therapy for shin splints depend on the severity of the injury and the athlete’s progress. In the early stages of treatment, physical therapy sessions are typically scheduled two times a week to address pain, reduce inflammation, and restore function. As the patient progresses, sessions may be spaced out to once a week, focusing on strengthening exercises and biomechanical corrections. The length of the rehabilitation process depends on the severity of the injury and how well the patient adheres to the treatment plan. After recovery, maintenance exercises and a gradual return to running are essential to prevent re-injury.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Shin splints are a common and painful condition that affects many runners. With proper treatment, including rest, manual therapy, targeted exercises, and biomechanical corrections, patients can recover and return to their sport stronger and less prone to future injury. Working with a physical therapist ensures that the rehabilitation process is tailored to the individual’s needs, helping to manage pain, improve performance, and reduce the risk of recurrence. Early intervention and a comprehensive treatment plan are key to returning to peak performance and avoiding long-term setbacks.
If you have any questions or want to schedule a gait assessment with our NYC physical therapists, contact CSC+M today!
