Shin splints are a common form of overuse injury in runners and other athletes. Certain risk factors are associated with its development, and these can help identify people who may benefit from preventive interventions.
The definition of shin splints varies:
(1) It involves exertional pain or discomfort.
(2) The location may involve the lower anterior leg or over the anterior tibia.
(3) It is a diagnosis of exclusion, requiring exclusion of stress fracture, compartment syndrome, and muscle herniations.
Parameter |
Risk Factors |
weight and percent body fat |
increased body fat |
anatomic variations in the lower extremity |
see below |
aerobic endurance and conditioning |
decreased physical fitness, fatigue |
skills |
poor coordination, lack of experience |
shoes |
worn or inadequate |
running surface |
hard running surface, uneven terrain, running on hills |
running parameters |
sudden increase in running frequency, distance or duration; competitive running |
exercise |
excessive and forceful foot flexures (ballet) |
habits |
smoking |
past history |
previous injury |
where:
• The table excludes controversial risk factors like age and gender.
Anatomic variations associated with shin splints:
(1) anterversion of the femoral neck
(2) genu valgus
(3) pes clavus
(4) foot hyperpronation
(5) joint laxity
Athletes with one or more risk factors are candidates for preventive measures.
Specialty: Surgery, orthopedic
ICD-10: ,