Shin splints (otherwise known as “medial tibial stress syndrome”) usually involve small tears in the leg muscles where they are attached to the shin bone. The two types of shin splints are: anterior shin splints, in the front portion of the tibia; and posterior shin splints, occurring on the inside of the leg along the tibia. Shin splints can be caused when the anterior or posterior leg muscles are stressed by running, especially on hard surfaces or extensively on the toes, or by sports that involve jumping. Over-pronated (flat feet) can lead to increased stress on the lower leg muscles during exercise. In addition, people with high arched feet can also experience shin splint discomfort because this foot type is a poor shock absorber. Custom Foot Orthotics are an excellent treatment for shin splints. If made correctly, they can unload the chronically stressed tissues and aid in shock absorption.
