Medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS), commonly referred to as shin splints, is a common complaint especially among runners. “Shin splints” is the term used to describe the pain occurring on the front, or border, of the shin. There are two main muscles involved in MTSS, tibialis posterior and flexor digitorum longus. It is the repetitive eccentric contraction of these two muscles that cause MTSS.
The repetitively pulling on the periosteum, which envelopes the bone, causes inflammation and in turn, pain. A healthy bone will adapt to stresses placed on it, but when stress it excessive and the bone no longer adapts, you end up with MTSS. If you continue to place stress upon the bone, you may end up with a stress fracture
MTSS accounts for approximately 13-17% of all running injuries. Interestingly, MTSS is seen in runners who increased speed too much over increasing distance. This is due to the extra stress that muscle be absorbed when increasing speed.
There are four stages to MTSS
Stage 1 – Pain or discomfort which disappears during warm up
Stage 2 – Pain or discomfort which disappears during warm up but may return at the end of activity
Stage 3 – Pain or discomfort which gets worse during activity
Stage 4 – Constant pain or discomfort
Osteopathic treatment is quite effective in the treatment and management of MTSS but the most effective strategy in the rehabilitation process, until you can see an Osteopath, is to REST.
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This post was written by Dr Monica Bassier
You can find out more about Monica here or book an appointment with her here or alternatively call our clinic on 03 9908 2844