Shin Splints

The shin (or the front part of the leg) contains a few different groupings of muscles. Shin splints are typically pain on the inside of the shin, but pain may also be felt in the muscle groupings on the very front of the shin, or the outside.

Symptoms of Shin Splints

  • Commonly, there is pain in the lower two-thirds of the inside of the shin

  • Pain may be felt on the outside of the shin or the front of the shin

  • Pain while walking, during exercise or with pressure on the affected area

Causes of Shin Splits

  • Poor foot mechanics

  • Being overweight

  • Sudden activity changes

  • Muscle imbalances (strength or flexibility)

  • Unfavourable ground conditions

Pedorthic Pointers for Patients

To prevent and alleviate heel pain, Canadian Certified Pedorthists recommend:

  • Carefully and slowly increasing activity to allow the tissues of the lower limbs time to properly adapt

  • Wearing stable and cushioned shoes with sturdy midsoles (the bottom of the shoe) to control motion and provide shock absorption

  • When the pain does occur, consult a Canadian Certified Pedorthist to determine if an over-the-counter device or a custom-made foot orthotic, along with appropriate footwear, will help the healing process and prevent the recurrence of problems

  • Avoid going barefoot or just wearing socks while in pain, as poor foot mechanics can aggravate the pain further if not controlled

  • Icing and simple calf stretching can help alleviate pain associated with shin splints. Patients should ice the affected area for approximately eight minutes, three times a day.

To make an appointment with a Pedorthist to receive an examination and get fitted for a custom-made foot orthotic, click here to find a Pedorthist near you.