Lateral Shin Splints

Shin splints are a painful condition that affects the lower leg. Lateral shin splints cause pain on the outside of the lower leg.

Identification

• Lateral shin splints are caused by trauma and fatigue to the muscle tendons that attach to the bones in the lower part of the leg (tibia). While trying to keep the lower leg and ankle stable, the muscles can place force on the lower leg. This can result in the tearing of tendons away from the tibia.

Overload Injuries

• Overload injuries such as running, may cause lateral shin splints. The shock and repeated force of weight-bearing activities are often the cause of shin splints. Other causes of lateral shin splints are running on an uneven surface, running on concrete, increasing exercise intensity too quickly, exercising in improper footwear and running uphill or downhill excessively.

Biomechanical Causes

• Biomechanical problems such as having flat feet or very tight muscles in the lower portion of the legs, contribute to the development of lateral shin splints. Other factors include running on the balls of the feet, leaning forward while running, leaning backward while running and running with the toes pointed outward.

Symptoms

• The most common symptom associated with lateral shin splints is pain on the outside area of the lower part of the leg. If shin splints become severe, then it may become difficult and painful to walk and exercise.

Treatment

• The treatment for lateral shin splints is rest, ice, compression and elevation. These four things should be done for at least 48 to 72 hours after shin splint pain begins. Consult a doctor if pain persists beyond this point, as it may be necessary to see a physical therapist for further treatment.