Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome: Shin Splints

I'm an active runner and have been experiencing pain in my shins. If I stop training for a few weeks, it goes away but comes back as soon as I resume my running activities. Am I suffering from shin splints? If so, what can I do to treat them other than rest?

Dr. Kathleen Weber:

It certainly sounds like you are experiencing Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome, or what is commonly referred to as "shin splints." This condition is caused when tension on the tendons attached to the tibia causes microscopic tissue injury. Training such as running and aerobic walking can cause tissue damage, which needs to heal and adapt to the increased level of tension. When training causes damage more quickly than the tissue can heal, a chronic inflammatory state can occur (shin splints).

This injury is very common among basketball players, dancers, military personnel, and yes, runners. In fact, shin splints are one of the five most common running injuries. In addition to activity, contributing factors such as flat feet or knee mal-alignment ("knock knees" or "bow legs") can increase the incidence of shin splints.

Treatment Options:

I'm sure that you don't want to hear this, but treatment for shin splints typically involves several weeks of rest from the activity that is causing it. Using cold packs and mild compression can help to reduce inflammation. After several weeks of rest, stretching, and strengthening exercises you can resume training at a level much lower than what you were doing before. It's important that you increase your training slowly, and back off if the pain returns. You may also substitute other forms of conditioning. Most people eventually get back to their prior level of fitness/training.

If the condition is chronic, it's important to see an orthopaedic physician. After a thorough evaluation, your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications or diagnostic tests to make sure that there isn't a stress fracture of the tibia. Fortunately, shin splints rarely require surgery.

For more information about Dr. Weber and the Sports Medicine physicians of Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, call 877 MD BONES or contact us through this Web site.

This information is not intended as a substitute for the professional advice of your physician, nor to be a complete description of every aspect of a condition, nor a complete list of possible side effects of any medication. Decisions concerning your treatment should be based on your own health care provider's evaluation of your personal health history and current condition. Consult your physician before following any of the suggestions on this Web site. All articles on this Web site represent the personal opinions of the individual authors and should not be construed as official policy of Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush.