Shin splints are a common condition that usually affect runners and those participating in very repetitive movements (e.g., dancers, military cadets). It is a syndrome that causes pain at the inside of the shin bone (tibia) and the surrounding connective tissue. It is also called medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS) and may respond well to rest and ice if less severe. More severe cases may contribute to increased levels of pain and even limping.
There may be one specific injury or the condition may gradually get worse with repeated throws. There are many risk factors that may influence this injury: years of pitching experience, type of pitches thrown, and strength and flexibility profile of the arm and shoulder.
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Cause:
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Repetitive stress (running or movements)
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Recent change in training frequency, duration, or intensity
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Treatment:
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Ice, ankle rehabilitation (e.g., balance, strength, flexibility)
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Modification of training patterns
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Diagnosis:
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Your medical provider will conduct an interview about your sporting habits, conduct a physical exam and may request an x-ray to appraise bone health
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CAN KIDS GET SHIN SPLINTS?
Kids can unfortunately get shin splints, especially with the rise of youth sport specialization and the high rates of year-round sport participation. These large stresses, combined with the repetitive nature of some sports, can contribute to shin splints and other overuse conditions.
HOW DO YOU TREAT SHIN SPLINTS IN CHILDREN?
The treatment for shin splints starts with symptom management: medicine, ice, heat, compression, and elevation of the extremity. Your practitioner may recommend a variety of activities including stretching, balance, and strengthening with bands or weights.
The athlete’s participation in sport may need to be reduced or in some cases, eliminated, for a number of weeks. In more severe cases, a boot or cast may be used to help decrease the forces on the tissues.
HOW DO YOU CHECK FOR SHIN SPLINTS?
Shin splints is largely a clinical diagnosis. The doctor may order x-rays to help rule out more serious conditions, but usually, an in depth interview coupled with a through examination is all it takes to diagnose shin splints.
WHY DO MY CHILD'S SHINS HURT?
A child’s shin may hurt for a variety of reasons, but the most common reason for shin pain at CTPO is from an overuse injury. This may happen when the athlete participates in too many sports at one time or the athlete specializes in one sport that occurs year round.
There may be other factors at play (e.g. the athlete started a sport too quickly without appropriate off season training) as well.