SHIN SPLINTS (Periostitis)

Shin splints is a term used to describe pain experienced at the front of the lower leg. Shin splints is not a diagnosis in itself but a description of symptoms of which there could be a number of causes. The most common cause is inflammation of the periostium of the tibia (sheath surrounding the bone).

Shin splints is an overuse injury and can be caused by running on hard surfaces or running on tip toes. It is also common in sports where a lot of jumping is involved. If you over pronate due to an arch defect, you are more susceptible to this injury.
Symptoms may include tenderness, pain, swelling and the development of small bumps on the lower medial portion of your shin bone (tibia).

Appropriate treatment of this condition includes; rest, ice, deep muscle work and/or NMR, stretching, orthotics and in severe cases, surgery.