Discover how shin splints occur and the risk factors associated with this common condition among runners, dancers, and military recruits. At Arunalaya Advanced Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation in Patel Nagar, Delhi, our experienced physiotherapy team provides personalized treatment plans that include ice therapy, compression, flexibility exercises, supportive shoes, orthotics, and other techniques to relieve pain and promote healing.
Introduction:Shin splints, medically known as medial tibial stress syndrome, cause pain along the shinbone and commonly affect athletes who have recently intensified or changed their training routines. At Arunalaya Advanced Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation in Patel Nagar, Delhi, our dedicated physiotherapy team specializes in providing effective treatment for shin splints, helping individuals recover and prevent future occurrences.
Understanding the Causes and Risk Factors:Shin splints are caused by repetitive stress on the shinbone and the connective tissues that attach muscles to the bone. Contributing factors include flat feet, abnormally rigid arches, exercising with improper or worn-out footwear, and engaging in high-impact activities such as running, dancing, or military training.
Comprehensive Physiotherapy Treatment:Our physiotherapy treatment for shin splints is tailored to each individual's needs and aims to relieve pain, promote healing, and prevent future occurrences. Key components of our treatment approach include:
1. Ice Therapy: Applying cold packs for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day, helps reduce inflammation and pain. It's important to avoid direct skin contact with the ice.
2. Compression: Wearing an elastic compression bandage provides additional support and helps prevent further swelling.
3. Flexibility Exercises: Stretching the lower leg muscles can alleviate shin discomfort and promote healing.
4. Supportive Shoes: Wearing shoes with proper cushioning during daily activities helps reduce stress on the shins.
5. Orthotics: Individuals with flat feet or recurrent shin splints may benefit from orthotic shoe inserts. These inserts help align and stabilize the foot and ankle, reducing stress on the lower leg. Orthotics can be custom-made or purchased off the shelf.
6. Gradual Return to Exercise: Shin splints usually resolve with rest and the aforementioned treatments. Before returning to exercise, it is important to be pain-free for at least 2 weeks. When resuming exercise, start at a lower intensity and gradually increase the duration and frequency. Any recurring pain should be addressed by immediately stopping exercise, applying a cold pack, and resting for a day or two.
7. Laser Therapy: Laser treatment over the painful area on the shin can be effective in reducing pain and promoting healing.
8. Myofascial Release (MFR): Applying MFR techniques to clear the joint line and release muscle tightness can be beneficial in shin splint management.
9. Posture and Movement Modification: Avoiding leg crossing and lifting the leg while sitting can help reduce strain on the shins.
10. Kinesiology Taping: Using kinesiology tape can provide support, restrict unwanted movement, and stabilize the shin during activities, aiding in the recovery process.
Conclusion:At Arunalaya Advanced Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation in Patel Nagar, Delhi, our expert physiotherapy team understands the impact of shin splints on athletes' performance and overall well-being. Through personalized treatment plans encompassing ice therapy, compression, flexibility exercises, supportive footwear, orthotics, laser therapy, MFR, posture modification, and kinesiology taping, we aim to relieve pain, promote healing, and prevent future occurrences of shin splints. Schedule an appointment today and let us guide you towards a pain-free and active lifestyle.