Reader Question:

I have shin splints when I run. Can physical therapy help?

Shin splints, or medial tibial stress syn- drome, refer to pain along the shinbone caused by an overload on the shinbone and connective tissues that attach your muscles to the bone. Pain is caused by running on slanted or tilted surfaces, worn-out footwear or training too hard. Symptoms include pain and mild swelling over the inside lower half of the shin and soreness when the toes are pointed downwards. Symptoms may decrease with rest, but can eventually become continuous if not properly treated. Initial treatments include rest and ice to decrease inflammation and swelling and decreasing exercise intensity and time. A physical therapist can assess your running mechanics and recommend the appropriate running shoe for your foot as well as arch supports to cushion and disperse stress on your shinbones. They can also prescribe a stretching and strengthening program to improve endurance and flexibility in the lower leg. You may also begin cross training with activities such as swim- ming or biking that place less impact on your shins.

Vince Frisillo, MPT
Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine
Excel Therapy Specialists