What is the Shin Splint injury? Learn how to prevent and heal this common injury amongst hockey players
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WHERE DOES SHIN SPLINTS OCCUR?
There are 2 regions where you can suffer shin splints, they are Anterior shin splints and Posterior shin splints. Anterior shin splints occur on the front part of the shin online and involve the tibialis anterior muscle. Anterior shin splints are also knows as Anterior Tibial Stress Syndrome (ATSS).
Posterior shin splints are located on the inside rear part of the shin bone and involve the tibialis posterior muscle. Posterior shin splints are also known as Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (MTSS).
WHAT CAUSES SHIN SPLINTS?
Shin splints are caused by repeated trauma to the connective muscle tissue surrounding the tibia. They are also caused by overuse or overtraining associated with poor foot and leg biomechanics. Increase in intensity or frequency in activity level fatigues muscles too quickly to properly help absorb the shock, forcing the tibia to absorb most of it. This stress will result in shin splints.WHAT TO AVOID WHEN STRUGGLING WITH SHIN SPLINTS?
▪️Running Uphill
▪️Running downhill
▪️Running on uneven terrain
▪️Running on hard surfaces
▪️Improper footwearRISK FACTORS FOR SHIN SPLINTS?
▪️Abdormal biomechanics-overpronation, tibial malalighnment e.g. Bowed legs
▪️Training methods- inappropriate increases in the intensity, duration or frequency of exercise.
▪️Training surfaces- running on hard surfaces or uneven ground.
▪️Poor flexibility, muscle imbalances or inadequate strength affecting muscles of the lower limb (Sports Medicine Australia, 2010)MOVE WELL PHYSIOTHERAPY Has created a strengthening program for people who are struggling with shin splints.
Click here to view the program: http://movewell.com.au/shin-splints-program
