• Shin Splints

    Shin Splints

    Signs or Symptoms

    Severe pain over the front of the tibia, lower leg bone, after running or walking

    Description

    Inflammation of the attachment of the muscles that attach on the shinbone

    Causes

    Improper walking or running style

    Standard treatment

    Anti-inflammatory medications, rest

    AK Approach

    An evaluation of the gait, style of walking or running is done. First, therapy is aimed at reducing the tightness, trigger points, in the muscles involved. Then the question becomes why or what caused the muscle to become inflamed? Testing of the major muscles used on walking and running are performed to make sure that there is not an imbalance that would lead to faulty foot Ð gait mechanics. These are corrected and therapeutic exercises are given. The foot and ankle are then examined for the need of an orthotic, foot support. Nutritional therapies aimed at increasing factors that would lead to relaxing the muscles and reducing any inflammation is considered.

    Other lifestyle modifications are used to prevent or minimize exacerbating the condition. A specific program for your needs is created.