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Published May 12, 2022

s2/e16 Shin Splints with Dr. Marie Whitt, DPT (@dr.whitt.fit)

Dr. Marie Whitt, DPT, delves into the complexities of shin splints, addressing muscle imbalances and biomechanical factors, while sharing practical treatment and prevention strategies to keep runners on track. This episode offers essential insights into managing this common injury through neuromotor control and strategic exercises with host Elisabeth Scott.
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  • Causes & Symptoms

    Shin splints, a common ailment among runners and athletes, are often caused by increasing running volume too rapidly or under-recovering. and discuss how factors like running on hard surfaces, using improper footwear, and previous ankle issues can contribute to this condition 1. Symptoms typically manifest as a dull ache on the front of the shin bone, which can progress to a sharp pain 2. explains that shin splints can be nebulous, with pain shifting locations, making diagnosis challenging:

    It could be anywhere from a dull ache that is truly right on their front of their shin bone, or it can be on the inside, right above that ankle bone.

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    Understanding these symptoms and causes is crucial for effective treatment and prevention.

       

    Personal Stories

    Personal experiences with shin splints highlight the condition's complexity and the challenges in pinpointing its exact cause. shares her journey, initially attributing her shin splints to high arches and later realizing the importance of conditioning 3. emphasizes the multifactorial nature of shin splints, noting that muscle imbalances and abnormal tibial loading often play a role 4. She explains:

    It's a spectrum of injuries that include muscle imbalance... resulting in chronic repeated stress, which is shin splints.

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    These stories underscore the need for a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment.

       

    Definitions & Misconceptions

    Shin splints, medically known as medial tibial stress syndrome, are often misunderstood. explains that they involve inflammation of the periosteum, the outer layer of the tibia, due to repetitive stress 5. Misconceptions abound, with many viewing bones as static structures rather than living tissues capable of injury 4. clarifies:

    We have to remember that our bones are a living tissue... they do a lot of work for us that over time.

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    Understanding these nuances is key to addressing shin splints effectively.

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