How to heal shin splints

Shin splints are a common injury among runners and dancers. Orthopedic surgeon and fitness expert Vonda Wright, MD, explains what causes shin splints and the best way to treat them.

Transcript

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Shin splints are usually caused by vigorous, repetitive, leg pounding activity. They're common among runners and dancers.

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Hi, I'm Dr. Vonda Wright with a smart tip about a common pain. I'm talking about shin splints.

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Shin splints are caused by inflammation that affects your muscles, ligaments, and the thin layer of tissue along your shin bone or tibia.

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They're a painful condition with similar pain symptoms to tendinitis or a stress fracture. Because of the similarities, it's

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important to see your doctor to get a definitive diagnosis. Shin splints are usually caused by vigorous, repetitive, leg

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pounding activity. They're common among runners and dancers. How can you treat a shin splint?

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If you've recently ramped up your workout, bring it back down. Choose a different form of exercise to give the inflammation a chance to recover and subside.

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That means bike instead of run or swim instead of dance. Apply a cold pack for 20 minutes a couple times a day

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and after each exercise session. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs can also speed up the healing process.