Shin splints also known as Medial Tibial Traction Periostitis is a condition which causes pain and inflammation along the inside of the lower third of the shin bone (tibia). It occurs due to overuse of the muscles which control the movement of the foot and ankle as it makes contact with the ground. These muscles become overworked and fatigued and begin to pull on the shin bone where they originate from leading to an inflammatory stress reaction. The condition is most common in long distance runners due to repetitive overuse and strain.

There are a number of factors which may contribute to the development of shin splints, these include flat feet (over pronators), poor muscle conditioning and flexibility, training errors, poor foot wear, and running on sloped or hard surfaces. At Portobello Physiotherapy our Chartered Physiotherapists will examine the causes of your pain and may use any of the following treatment techniques to restore you back to full physical health: Deep tissue massage, Myofascial techniques, passive stretching and strengthening exercises, Laser, dry needling, acupuncture, corrective taping and prescription orthotics.