MSR: Is There a Shin Splint in Your Runners High

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IS THERE A SPLINT IN YOUR RUNNER’S HIGH? Is your runner’s high being stifled by pain in your shins or legs? Do they tend to throb after your daily jogs, or ache simply after moving quickly to catch up with someone? If so, you may be experiencing shin splints. Shin splints, also medically referred to as “medial tibial stress syndrome,” occurs when there is excessive stress on your shinbone and its surrounding tissues. These tissues connect your muscles to your bones, and when they become inflamed, it can become painful. They are most common in runners, due to the stress of impact that the shins face while running; however, shin splints can present themselves in anyone whose lifestyle includes substantial physical demand. Shin splints can be painful and debilitating toward your daily life, but physical therapy can fortunately help alleviate the pain and correct the condition. To speak with someone about how physical therapy can help fix your shin splints, call our office today! Causes of shin splints: There are many common causes of shin splints, including, but not limited to: • Previous injury. If you have had a foot, leg, or shin injury in the past, your risk of shin splints may be heightened. • Sport participation. Some sports have a higher risk of shin splints than others, especially those with high levels of running and/or jumping. INSIDE : • How Physical Therapy Can Help • Therapist Spotlight

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• Body mass. If you have a BMI greater than 20.2, your probability toward developing shin splints may be higher. • Overpronation. This is also referred to as the act of flattening the arches of one’s feet while standing, walking, or running. A flat arch creates a greater risk of shin splints. • Hip motion. This can be related to sport or general gait, in which the hips move through a greater range than what is typical. This is common in sports such as dance, gymnastics, or cheerleading, but can also be due to an abnormality in the way one walks. • Improper shoes. Wearing shoes that are ill-fitted or that don’t provide proper arch support can increase your risk of shin splints. • Lack of stretching. If you complete a run or workout without warm-up and cool-down stretches, your muscles and tissues can become irritated, increasing your risk of shin splints. • General weakness. If you have weak ankles, hips, or core muscles, you may be at a greater risk of developing shin splints. This can be corrected through strength training exercises.

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