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PROBLEM:
Shin splints is a catchall term that may refer to a variety of overuse
problems affecting the lower leg. There are two different types of shin
splints. The first type is called Anterior-lateral (AL. Anterior-lateral
shin splints are usually attributed to overuse of the muscles on the front
of the lower leg (Anterior Tibialis, Extensors Digitorum Longus, and
Extensor Hallucis Longus). The overuse will frequently happen as a result of
excessive eccentric loading (a lengthening contraction of a muscle, with
emphasis on decelerating movement or resisting gravity) of the muscles
located on the front of the lower leg. This eccentric loading happens during
explosive running, quick starting and stopping motions, rapid changes of
directions while running, improper landing mechanics while jumping and weak
ankles.
The second
type of shin splints is called posterior-medial (PM). Another name for this
type of shin splints is medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS). This is an
overuse problem as well but PM shin splints are caused by overuse to the
muscular structures that resist pronation of the foot and ankle complex,
primarily posterior tibialis muscle.
Running and
jumping on hard surfaces with flat feet or collapsed ankles (overpronation)
will lead to improper biomechanical function of the foot, ankle and leg
complex. Instead of the posterior tibialis muscle resisting pronation it
becomes over stressed leading to constant inflammation and irritation within
the muscle producing pain inside the lower leg during athletic movements. |
