Shin splints is the bane of runners everywhere. The pain and discomfort caused by this condition stops even the most active person in their tracks. It’s one of the most common injuries runners experience due to overuse, accounting for 10-20% of all running injuries.
If left untreated, shin splints can cause small breaks in the bones of the lower leg, called stress fractures. These are much more serious injuries and may require more invasive treatments to heal. With the right physical therapy solution for shin splints — combining manual techniques, exercises, and education — you’ll be back to your active lifestyle in no time.
What are Shin Splints?
Medial tibial stress syndrome is referred to as shin splints. This type of injury causes pain along the inside of the shinbone, commonly affecting runners, dancers, and those who participate in high-impact activities. Shin splints occur when the muscles in the lower leg become overworked, which leads to tenderness, inflammation, and pain.
If you live an active lifestyle, you’re at risk of shin splints. Here are some ways to reduce the risk of an injury:
- Gradually increase the intensity of your workout
- Wear supportive shoes appropriate for the activity
- Avoid overdoing and repetitive stress
- Cross-train to lessen the impact of higher-intensity activities
- Consult with a physical therapist and adjust your routine
The Benefits of Physical Therapy for Shin Splints
Your recovery will be much faster while working alongside a physical therapist. Because they are experts in musculoskeletal injuries, they have the knowledge and training to create a personalized treatment plan that targets the root cause of shin splints. Physical therapists use various techniques such as manual therapy, strengthening exercises, and hands-on massage to help you heal and prevent re-injury.
Benefits of physical therapy for shin splints include:
- Pain reduction. The pain caused by shin splints can be excruciating, making everyday activities difficult. Physical therapy reduces pain and inflammation, allowing you to return to your normal routine with ease.
- Improved flexibility and range of motion. In severe cases, shin splints restrict movement and can easily limit your range of motion. Physical therapy helps to improve your mobility, making it easier to perform normal physical activities.
- Preventing re-injury. Strengthening exercises will help you develop stronger muscles, which can prevent future injuries.
Convenient and Customized Treatment With Luna
At Luna, we understand that our patients have busy lives. That’s why we offer convenient and flexible treatment options that fit your schedule. With in-home physical therapy, you can heal from the comfort of your own home.
Every patient is unique, which is why your Luna physical therapist will customize a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals. We take the time to get to know our patients, their lifestyles, and their goals, so we can develop the most effective exercises and path to recovery.
Find a Luna physical therapist near you and contact us to get started healing with high-quality, personalized care.
