Shin Splints

Shin splints is an umbrella term given for any pain on the front of the lower leg. Most common cause is Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (MTSS). Symptoms usually come on gradually. Injuries are caused when large forces are exerted through the tibia bone and the surrounding soft tissues. The muscles and tendons pull on the sheath surrounding the bone, causing pain and inflammation. Treatment may involve rest and cold theray, physiotherapy and foot orthotics to correct biomechanics.

 

Anterior Compartmental Syndrome

This can be acute or chronic. It occurs when the muscle at the front of the leg (Tibialis Anterior) becomes too big for the sheath which surrounds it or pressure builds up, causing extreme pain. It is often due to an injury of the muscle, causing it to swell up. Symptoms will involve pain, weakness and inability to move the foot upwards. Treatment plan may initially involve rest and cold therapy, then physiotherapy and looking into gait analysis and foot orthotics. A severe acute compartment syndrome is a medical emergency. You must attend Accident & Emergency unit as soon as possible,