Shin-splints, periosteumitis or Tibial Stress Syndrome (T.S.S.) is a common overuse injury to the inner (medial side) of the shinbone (tibia).
Shin splints is actually a collective term for various overuse injuries which are generally located in the lower two-thirds of the shin bone. It is a common injury in runners, but can also occur in people who do not run. There is pain when walking and when touching the shinbone. The pain is caused by irritation of the periosteum where the muscles attach to the bone. In the beginning, there is only a nagging or stabbing pain after loading and it disappears after resting; after some time, the pain lasts longer and more and more rest is needed before it disappears completely. Eventually, the pain is always present, even after prolonged rest. The pain is mainly felt when putting the foot down, bouncing it off or touching it. Shinbone problems usually heal slowly and it is not unlikely that with insufficient adaptation (training structure, running shoes, running environment, stretching and muscle strengthening exercises) the injury will quickly recur.
The treatment consists mainly of discontinuing running, correct shoe advice, adjusting the choice of surface when running and, if necessary, starting podiatric insole therapy. All this can help prevent the recurrence of shin splints. In extreme cases, surgery can be considered as the very last option.
