What causes shin splints in athletes?
The exact cause of shin splints remains unknown. It has been attributed to inflammation of the muscles, tendons, and lining of the bone (“periosteum”) in this location that causes pain after repetitive activities. Sometimes the bone is involved as well in more severe cases. NATA athletic trainers believe that shin splints may result from an imbalance and relative weakness of the anterior compared to posterior compartment musculature of the lower leg. Others believe that forceful, repetitive downward flexion of the foot (“plantar-flexion”) may stretch the anterior muscles of the lower leg and increase risk for shin splints. What is the best shin splints treatment in athletes? The mainstay of shin splints treatment in athletes is rest and avoidance of activities that cause the pain. This provides time for the inflammation to resolve and for recovery of the injured tissues. Rest is often accompanied by the initiation of anti-inflammatory, nonsteroidal medications (“NSAIDS”), cold therapy,
