Athletes and individuals given to high-impact activities typically suffer from a condition known as medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS) or shin splints. MTSS occurs when the muscles, bone tissue, and tendons surround ding the shin bone become strained or overworked leading to swelling, pain, and or discomfort. But apart from high-impact activities, what are some other shin splints causes?
1. Poor Foot Alignment
This is more common than people think. Improperly aligned feet can put an additional strain on your shins which can lead to shin splints.
Realigning your feet may require wearing orthotics to evenly distribute your weight and support your feet. Stretching your ankles, calves, and feet can also help.
2. Increasing Activity Levels
If you’re an athlete or a person who enjoys exercising regularly, it’s imperative that you avoid trying to do too much too soon. Do not attempt to ramp up your level too quickly.
Speed is a surefire way to strain your shins and develop shin splits. Listen to your body and pace yourself so you can increase the intensity gradually.
3. Wearing Inappropriate Shoes
80% of men and32% of women wear the wrong size shoes. This is not good for your feet, gait, and balance.
Wearing the wrong shoes means you don’t have the necessary support or cushioning. And without it, you increase your odds of developing medial tibial stress syndrome.
4. Weak Leg Muscles
If you suffer from weak lower leg muscles or have imbalanced muscles, this increases your risk of shin splints.
Your podiatrist can give you customized treatment options on how to strengthen or balance out muscles in the lower leg.
5. Flat Feet/High Arches
If you have flat feet or naturally high arches, you may be prone to medial tibial stress syndrome. Why? Simply because of the extra strain on your lower limbs.
Think You’re at Risk for Shin Splints?
By taking the initiative to wear proper shoes, slowly increasing your intensity level if you’re an athlete, and warming up properly, you can prevent shin splints. If you believe you have shin splints or would like an ankle and foot doctor to get to the bottom of pain in your lower legs,book an appointment with Dr. Lonny Nodelman today.
Looking for more insight? Check out our previous posts:
- The Overlooked Risks of Cortisone Injections in the Foot and Ankle
- Cortisone Shot in Foot, Does it Help?
- Inner Ankle Pain
Disclaimer:Any information provided in this blog is not intended to replace medical advice given by qualified professionals.