Shin splints is an inflammation caused by strain of the muscles on the lower leg that stabilise the foot.
Pain will occur in the lower leg, either on the front (anterior) part of the shin bone or on the inside (posterior) of the leg.
Causes and Symptoms of Shin Splints
Shin splints are most commonly suffered by athletes and participants of sports that involve running and jumping. This is because the condition is usually caused by repeated trauma and the overstraining of muscles where they attach to your shin.
A number of factors can result in shin splints, including a change in training quantity or intensity, insufficient rest between sessions or continuous running on hard surfaces.
Shin splints can also be caused by inappropriate footwear or bio-mechanic issues such as poor dynamic alignment, tight calf muscles or running on the toes.
Shin splints are symptomized by a dull and aching pain in the front of the lower leg during exercise, and you may also experience tenderness along the front and medial side of the shinbone.
Treatment of Shin Splints
The recovery time from shin splints will depend upon the severity of the injury and the recovery capabilities of the individual.
As with all soft tissue injuries, the initial treatment should be one of Protection, Rest and Ice. This will help to reduce any initial swelling and avoid making the injury any worse.
As your shin muscles heal and strengthen you will begin to regain a full range of motion. It is important to consult a physiotherapist who will help you to recover properly and ensure that the injury does not reoccur.
They will be able to advise you on foot biomechanics and any massage or stretching programme that may be required.
Recommended Shin Splint Supports
A good quality support can aid in the recovery from shin splints, as it will help to protect the area while also providing support and compression.
The LP Sports Medicine team has prepared some recommendations for the best supports for shin splints in the LP range.
LP Shin and Calf Sleeve / 718
£10.99
The LP Shin and Calf Sleeve provides compression and support over the shin and calf, so it is ideal for recovery from soft tissue injuries including shin splints.
It is designed to fit snugly over the ankle providing heat and support to the lower portion of the tibia and achilles area.
The LP Shin and Calf Sleeve is made from the highest quality closed cell neoprene, covered with stretch nylon on both sides for comfort. As neoprene is the ultimate material for compression and heat retention, this allows the support to retain body heat to warm the shin, increase blood circulation and assist in recovery from shin splints.
This support product is available in various sizes.
Buy the LP Shin and Calf Sleeve / 718
LP Shin and Calf Support / 778
£12.50
This LP Shin and Calf Support is designed to fit the upper portion of the tibia and calf, so it is also recommended for rehabilitation from shin splints.
It is also made from neoprene, so provides compression and support as well as retaining body heat to increase blood circulation.
This support includes a unique Velcro design and it is available as a ‘One Size Fits All’ product. It fits most calf sizes and can be adjusted according to the size of the calf and the compression required.
Buy the LP Shin and Calf Support / 778
There are also shin and calf support products available from our sister company at OPPO Supports, including an Elasticated Support which fits the upper portion of the tibia and calf.
A good quality support can play an important part in recovery from shin splints, and in conjunction with a well-managed recovery programme can help you to recover faster and prevent further injury.