Surgical Treatment for Shin Splints

Shin splints are essentially the pain you experience along the shinbone of your lower leg. Also known as medial tibial stress syndrome, this sports-related injury is usually a result of running, especially on uneven surfaces or for extended periods. And while most people respond favorably to self-care measures, such as rest, icing, elevation and over-the-counter medications, more persistent or serious cases of shin splints may require surgery.

Treatment

• Most of the time, doctors recommend that you first rest, elevate and ice your legs. These three self-care measures can often reduce the inflammation within the shins and lessen the associated pain. Self-care is typically coupled with orthopedic arch supports to diminish the stress placed on the shins due to incorrect placement of the foot, which can eliminate further irritation and injury. When these fail to provide results or the condition is severe, medical intervention may be necessary.

  Surgical procedures for shin splints are typically needed when a condition known as compartment syndrome manifests within the shins. In compartment syndrome, the nerves and/or blood vessels within the shins become compressed because of inflammation. If left untreated, damage may occur not only within the nerve endings, leading to more persistent pain, but also the muscles of your lower legs, which could result in weakness and atrophy.

  Compression is relieved through a fasciotomy, which is a medical procedure where the fascia (tendons of connective tissue) suffering the inflammation is either cut or removed from the leg. One or more incisions are made in the skin along the lower leg near the areas of irritation and inflammation. Once exposed, the fascia can than be cut or removed to relieve the pressure. But unlike other surgical procedures, the incisions are left open to ensure that further swelling doesn't occur within the fascia. A medical professional periodically checks the pressure within the lower leg. And as soon as two to three days have passed without compression, the areas are closed and the procedure is deemed successful. According to a recent study, more than 65 percent of people who had a fasciotomy to treat shin splints saw an improvement in their condition.

Adverse Effects

• Though most people see an improvement in their condition after a fasciotomy, there is the potential to experience adverse effects from the procedure. For some, an infection sets in along the surgical site. This is often treated with observation and a course of antibiotics. For others, scar tissue may develop along the incisions or removed portions of fascia. This may cause further pain, and an additional surgery may be necessary to remove the abnormal scar tissue.