Podiatrists in Blackburn & Essendon
Shin Splints Melbourne
At Melbourne Podiatry Clinic, we are trained in diagnosing and treating shin splints, offering personalised care to help patients recover and prevent it from returning.
What are Shin Splints?
Shin pain, commonly known as shin splints, is a condition characterised by discomfort along the shinbone (tibia). It often occurs due to overuse or repetitive stress on the lower leg, particularly during activities like running or jumping. Symptoms may include pain, tenderness, and mild swelling along the inner edge of the shinbone, which worsens with activity and improve with rest.
At Melbourne Podiatry Clinic, we are trained in diagnosing and treating shin splints, offering personalised care to help patients recover and prevent it from returning.
Symptoms
Shin splints can present with various symptoms, including:
Pain along the inner edge of the shinbone
Tenderness or soreness in the affected area
Mild swelling in the lower leg
Pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest
Pain hopping, jumping or running
Diagnosis
Diagnosing shin splints involves:
A thorough physical examination
Review of medical history and activity levels
Assessing footwear
Running gait analysis
Imaging tests such as X-rays, bone scans, or MRI to rule out stress fractures or other conditions
Treatment Options
At Melbourne Podiatry Clinic, we offer a range of treatment options for shin splints, including:
Rest and activity modification to allow the injured tissues to heal
Manual therapies such as soft tissue massage, dry needling and shockwave therapy
Ice therapy to reduce inflammation and pain
Stretching and strengthening exercises to improve flexibility and muscle balance
Orthotic devices or supportive footwear to provide cushioning and support
Running Gait Re-training to address biomechanical issues and improve gait mechanics
Anti-inflammatory medications to relieve pain and swelling
Prevention
To prevent shin splints, you can:
Gradually increase activity levels and avoid sudden changes in intensity
Wear appropriate footwear with adequate cushioning and support
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on the lower legs
Perform proper warm-up and cool-down routines before and after exercise
Cross-train with low-impact activities to reduce repetitive stress on the shins
Why Choose Melbourne Podiatry Clinic
Expertise and experience in diagnosing and treating shin splints
Personalised treatment plans tailored to your specific condition and activity level
Comprehensive approach to lower leg health, addressing biomechanical issues and muscle imbalances
Latest technology for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment
Positive results with a focus on patient-centred care and satisfaction
Frequently Asked Questions
Can shin splints lead to more serious injuries?
In some cases, untreated shin splints can progress to stress fractures or other lower leg injuries. It’s essential to seek treatment if symptoms persist or worsen.
How long does it take to recover from shin splints?
Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the condition and adherence to treatment. With proper care, many people experience improvement within a few weeks.
Can I continue exercising with shin splints?
Generally yes but your podiatrist may recommend modifying your exercise routine to avoid aggravating the condition. Low-impact activities like swimming or cycling may be better tolerated.
What can I do to prevent shin splints from recurring?
To prevent shin splints from recurring, it’s essential to address any underlying factors such as biomechanical issues or overtraining. Your podiatrist can provide personalised recommendations for prevention.
Melbourne Podiatry Clinic
Book a Consultation
Don’t let shin splints sideline your active lifestyle. Contact Melbourne Podiatry Clinic today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced podiatrists. Let us help you find relief and get back on track!