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Shin Pain

Shin pain is a common complaint among athletes and active people. It is also known as shin splints or medial tibial stress syndrome. Shin pain is caused by inflammation of the muscles and tissues in the front of the shinbone (tibia).

The symptoms of shin pain include:

  • Pain in the front of the shinbone
  • Swelling and tenderness
  • Pain that is worse with activity and better with rest

If you think you have shin pain, it is important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

The treatment for shin pain includes:

  • Rest: Avoid activities that aggravate the pain.
  • Ice: Apply ice to the affected area for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
  • Compression: Wear a compression sleeve or wrap around the affected area.
  • Elevation: Keep the affected leg elevated above the heart when you are resting.
  • Pain medication: Over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help to relieve pain and inflammation.
  • Stretching: Stretching the muscles in the front of the shin can help to prevent shin pain from recurring.
  • Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help to improve range of motion and strength in the muscles in the front of the shin.

In most cases, shin pain will heal on its own within a few weeks. However, if the pain is severe or does not improve with treatment, surgery may be an option.

Here are some tips to help prevent shin pain:

  • Warm up properly before exercising.
  • Stretch your calves and shin muscles regularly.
  • Wear supportive shoes.
  • Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts.
  • Listen to your body and take breaks when needed.

If you have any questions about shin pain, we encourage you to make an appointment to see Dr Sara Safari at Warrandyte Road Clinic.

Dr Sara Safari – Sports and Musculoskeletal Doctor

Dr Sara Safari is an experienced sports and musculoskeletal doctor with extensive experience in helping athletes and active individuals of all ages and levels get back to the activities they love.

She has previously held roles as a sports doctor with the AFL Academy, the Sydney Swans, Melbourne City FC and Eastern Ranges Football Club. She also consults as a sports and musculoskeletal physician at Knox Orthopaedic Group and assists in orthopaedic surgeries on a regular basis at various hospitals around Melbourne.