Shin Splints in Football Players

Introduction

Shin splints, also known more accurately as Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (MTSS), is a prevalent overuse injury that affects many football players. It is characterised by pain and tenderness along the inner border of the shin bone.

In this blog, we will explore the management of shin splints in football players. We will cover what shin splints are, its underlying causes, available treatment options, and the importance of a comprehensive approach in effectively managing the condition.

Understanding Shin Splints

Shin splints is a condition that involves inflammation and microtears in the muscles, tendons, and connective tissues surrounding the shin bone (tibia). It typically occurs due to repetitive stress and overload on the lower leg during activities such as running, jumping, and changes in direction.

Symptoms of Shin Splints

Here are some of the symptoms associated with shin splints:

Pain along the shinbone: Football players with shin splints often experience pain and tenderness along the inner border of the shinbone, typically in the lower two-thirds of the leg. The pain may be described as a dull ache or throbbing sensation.
Pain during activity: The pain associated with shin splints usually worsens during physical activity, especially running or jumping. Players may notice that the pain subsides when they stop exercising and rest.
Pain at the beginning of a workout: The symptoms of shin splints often start as a mild discomfort that gradually worsens as the activity progresses. Football players may notice that the pain is more pronounced at the beginning of a training session or match.
Swelling or inflammation: In some cases, the affected area may become slightly swollen or show signs of mild inflammation. However, severe swelling is not typically observed with shin splints.
Tenderness to touch: The inner side of the shinbone may be tender to touch. Applying pressure to the affected area can elicit pain.
No specific injury event: Unlike acute injuries, shin splints often develop gradually over time due to repetitive stress on the lower leg. Football players may not recall a specific injury or traumatic event that caused the pain.

Risk Factors

Shin Splints can be attributed to various factors, including:

Overuse and repetitive activity: Engaging in high-impact activities without adequate rest and recovery can result in excessive stress on the muscles and connective tissues of the lower leg.
Biomechanical issues: Abnormal foot mechanics, such as overpronation or high arches, can lead to improper distribution of forces along the lower leg, increasing the risk of shin splints.
Muscle imbalances: Weakness or tightness in certain muscles, such as the calf muscles or hip stabilizers, can contribute to increased stress on the lower leg.

Read Also

Bone Stress Injuries in Football

Assessment

Accurate assessment of medial tibial stress syndrome is essential for diagnosis and appropriate management. The assessment process may involve the following:

Medical history: Gathering information about the player’s symptoms, training routine, footwear, and any previous injuries or activities that exacerbate the pain.
Physical examination: The football physiotherapist will assess the lower leg, looking for tenderness, swelling, and any abnormalities in muscle strength, flexibility, and alignment.
Biomechanical assessment: Evaluating the player’s foot posture, gait, and lower limb alignment to identify any underlying issues that may contribute to shin splints.

Treatment Options

The management of shin splints aims to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and address underlying causes. Treatment options may include:

Rest and activity modification: Temporary rest from high-impact activities is crucial to allow the injured tissues to heal. Modifying training intensity, frequency, or surface can also help reduce stress on the lower leg.
Footwear assessment and modification: Ensuring proper footwear with adequate cushioning, arch support, and stability can help reduce the impact on the lower leg.
Orthotic devices: Custom-made orthotic inserts or shoe modifications may be recommended to alter the biomechanical loading through the lower limb and to provide more cushioning.
Strengthening and stretching exercises: A structured exercise program will focus on strengthening the calf muscles, tibialis anterior, and addressing any other muscle imbalances. Stretching exercises for the calf muscles and Achilles tendon can help improve flexibility.
Biomechanical changes: Running technique modifications may be implemented to improve lower limb alignment and reduce stress on the lower leg.

Products that may help

Voltarol Gel – View this product on Amazon for more details

This can be applied to the irritated part of the shin to help reduce pain and inflammation.

Insoles – View this product on Amazon for more details

Insoles can provide extra foot padding and shock absorption which can provide some protection for the pain and discomfort from shin splints.

Shin splint ice pack – View this product on Amazon for more details

Custom designed gel ice packs that provide ice + compression, they are specifically made to help with shin splints.

Tib trainer – View this product on Amazon for more details

The Tib Bar is used to strengthen the tibialis anterior, which helps rehabilitate and prevent shin splints.

Rehabilitation Techniques

Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in managing shin splints and preventing its recurrence. Rehabilitation techniques may include:

Gradual return to activity: Working closely with a football physiotherapist, players will follow a progressive plan to gradually reintroduce football-related activities, ensuring proper technique and monitoring for any signs of discomfort or recurrence.
Cross-training and conditioning: Incorporating low-impact activities such as swimming, cycling, or elliptical training can help maintain fitness levels while reducing stress on the lower leg.
Plyometric exercises: Controlled jumping and landing exercises can improve lower limb strength, power, and stability.
Proprioceptive training: Balance and coordination exercises can enhance stability and reduce the risk of re-injury.
Education and self-management strategies: Providing players with knowledge about injury prevention, proper warm-up and cool-down techniques, and self-care strategies such as foam rolling and stretching can empower them to take an active role in their recovery.

Conclusion

Shin splints can be a frustrating condition for football players, but with the right management approach, players can overcome symptoms and continue their football journey. Understanding the nature of the condition, identifying underlying causes, and accurately assessing the player’s condition are crucial.

Treatment options focus on pain management, activity modification, addressing biomechanical issues and muscle imbalances, and implementing rehabilitation techniques. By adopting a comprehensive approach to managing shin splints, football players can effectively alleviate symptoms, minimise the risk of recurrence, and return to the field stronger and more resilient.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis, treatment, and personalised recommendations based on your specific condition. Some affiliate links may also be used in this article, these are from products we have specifically selected to display based on our own experience.

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