Shin Splints

North Star Foot & Ankle Associates Our Services Shin Splints

North Star Foot & Ankle Associates

Podiatry located in Garland, TX

Roughly 60% of leg pain syndromes are tied to shin splints, especially if you’re a runner. If you’re experiencing pain that runs down the front of your lower leg, schedule a shin splints evaluation with R. Jeffrey Doyle, DPM, or H. Aden Huynh, DPM, at North Star Foot & Ankle Associates today. You can conveniently book an appointment directly through the website or you can call the Garland, Texas, office to speak with a team member.

Shin Splints Q & A

What causes shin splints?

Having shin splints means that you have pain and tenderness along the edge of your tibia bone (shin bone) on the front part of your lower leg. Shin splints occur when you go through a sudden increase in activity intensity, either through sports, exercise, or even work.

For instance, if you only work out on the weekends — known as a “weekend warrior” — you put added stress on your lower leg bones and connective tissues. This can lead to inflammation, as well as minor tears and bruising, which are all issues related to shin splints. 

Overuse and excessive stress can lead to shin splints, too. This is why this pain-causing issue tends to affect runners.

When should I see a podiatrist for shin splints?

The dedicated podiatry team at North Star Foot & Ankle Associates encourages you to come in for a shin splints evaluation if you have any pain in your lower legs, ankles, or feet, even if it seems minor or infrequent. 

It’s especially important to book a shin splints evaluation if you experience any of the following symptoms:

  • Decreased flexibility
  • Redness or swelling
  • Sharp or throbbing pains
  • Tenderness to the touch

Without proper treatment, shin splints can increase your risk of a more serious injury, such as a stress fracture. Shin splints can also become so painful that you have to change the way you walk (your gait), which can lead to knee, hip, and even lower back pain. 

How are shin splints treated?

Your shin splints treatment plan from North Star Foot & Ankle Associates is personalized to the severity of your symptoms, as well as your lifestyle and training regimen. Treating shin splints can involve:

  • Rest and ice
  • Custom orthotics 
  • Physical therapy
  • Supportive shoes 
  • Stretching and massage
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Your dedicated podiatrist at North Star Foot & Ankle Associates can even spend time teaching you exercise modifications and cross-training exercises you can perform to reduce your risk of struggling with shin splints in the future. 

You won’t have to suffer from shin splints another day with the help of the podiatry team at North Star Foot & Ankle Associates. Book your shin splints exam online or over the phone today.

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