Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (MTSS), commonly known as “shin splints,” is a condition that causes pain along the inner edge of the shinbone (tibia).
Here’s a breakdown:
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What it is: MTSS involves inflammation of the tissues connecting the muscles to the shinbone. This typically occurs due to overuse and repetitive stress, particularly in activities like running, jumping, and dancing.
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Symptoms:
- Pain along the inner edge of the shinbone
- Tenderness to touch
- Pain that worsens with activity and may subside with rest
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Causes:
- Overuse: Increasing the intensity or duration of exercise too quickly
- Improper footwear: Wearing shoes that don’t provide adequate support
- Muscle imbalances: Weak or tight muscles in the legs and feet
- Training errors: Running on hard surfaces, running downhill, or running on uneven surfaces
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Treatment:
- Rest: Reducing or stopping the activity that causes pain
- Ice: Applying ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day
- Compression: Wearing a compression bandage or sleeve to support the shin
- Elevation: Elevating the leg when resting
- Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and inflammation
- Physical therapy: Exercises to strengthen and stretch the muscles in the legs and feet
- Proper footwear: Wearing shoes that provide adequate support and cushioning