Shin Splints Condition

Shin splints are a painful inflammation of the origin of the anterior tibials muscle. It refers to pain along the shin or front of the leg. However, many patients come into a physician’s office complaining of “shin splints” when they have pain in the lower front leg from activities like running after long periods of inactivity.

It is caused by a relative weakness or overuse of the anterior tibialis and tightness of the calf muscles. Since the anterior tibialis helps support the medial longitudinal arch, these tibial stress syndromes are helped by wearing custom biomechanical orthotics that control mid foot motion and support the medial longitudinal arch. A strengthening program for the anterior tibialis and calf muscle stretching is also encouraged.