Shin Splints

Shin Splints are a common complaint of lower leg pain. They are characterized by pain in the front or inside aspect of the lower leg due to long-term overexertion of the muscles of the legs. Pain usually develops gradually over time with no history of trauma. The pain begins as a dull ache along the front or inside of the Tibia or shin. Small bumps with areas of tenderness may develop along the shin bone as pain worsens. Small tears in the leg muscles at the attachments to the bone become severe pain issues if this problem is not addressed. If you feel you have symptoms of Shin Splints, take a break from strenuous activity, use ice therapy, and take anti-inflammatory medication to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.

People with all types of feet can develop Shin Splints. The root cause of Shin Splints is lack of proper support to the feet. The best way to prevent Shin Splints is to wear a custom fitted ezWalker™ arch support. The ezWalker™ will support, balance, stabilize, and protect the body from the effects of overexertion of the leg muscles and help to heal any existing pain. Proper fitting footwear is also a factor when trying to heal and prevent Shin Splints. Improperly fitting footwear can actually make Shin Splints worse. Choose a shoe that will cushion heel strike to absorb shock and wear the ezWalker™ to reduce stress and strain on the muscles.

Make sure you are fitting your shoes properly. Have your fit checked regularly and remember the size on the measuring device is only a reference. Mass manufactured shoes are NOT all created equal. Refer to the Shoe Fitting Reference Guide for proper guidelines on how to best fit your shoes.

If you are following these guidelines and pain persists you must seek the council of a physician for diagnosis and treatment. If this condition goes unattended stress fractures in the bone may develop. An ex-ray is recommended to check for fractures.