X-Ray of shin (tibia) bone and foot, courtesy of Typo Queen
Runners dread shin splints because this injury can sideline an athlete on the disabled list for weeks at a time. This can be especially disappointing for someone on a specific training program for an upcoming race. Tapering should come at the end of the training schedule, not during the build-up.
The symptoms of shin splints are fairly straightforward and so runners usually do a self-diagnosis. The condition is characterized by a nagging pain along the tibia, in the connective tissues that secure the muscles to the bone.
But a more dangerous condition exists when the injury is not in fact shin splints, but is a stress fracture. This kind of fracture is actually a partial crack in the shin bone, or tibia. The problem with identifying this condition is that the location is the same and the intensity of the pain may be the same.
So how can a runner tell which is which? The answer lies in the nature of the sports injury. A stress fracture is highly localized, where the bone crack lies. Since shin splints are actually a condition affecting the connective tissue, the pain spans a longer vertical distance.
To try to identify which medical condition is the culprit, feel along the shin and determine how localized the pain is; this will offer one clue. Another clue is given by the fact that muscles, tendons, and other connective tissues tighten up during the night while sleep occurs. This is what makes it difficult to achieve a plantar fasciitis cure.
Because of this tissue contraction, a case of shin splints will hurt worse the first thing in the morning and will gradually get better as the tissues gradually lengthen with activity. On the other hand, bone rests during the night so it will feel better in the morning and get more painful during the course of the day as the pressure accumulates.
If there is any doubt which condition exists, consult with a doctor. To be notified when a new fitness article is published, click on "Subscribe to Email" at the top of this page or email admin@ksmithwriter.com. Opinions are welcome and encouraged. Why not add a comment?
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For more info:
- Index of common fitness and running injuries
- Body fat percentages for males and females
- Why you should run hill workouts
- 5 stretches for curing runner's knee
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