Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome

Medial tibial stress syndrome is commonly known as shin splints, but it is actually a type of shin splint condition. It is a pain that arises in the lateral part of the shin, that is the frontal area lying in between the knee and the ankle, mainly due to exercise. This syndrome can occur in any person who exercises frequently, but is more common among athletes, military personnel, dancers and sports players. Earlier, this stress syndrome went undiagnosed because it was confused with other similar problems. Now, however, it is separately diagnosed and there is quite a lot of awareness about it among doctors and researchers.

Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome Types
It occurs when there is excessive trauma or fatigue caused to the bone known as the 'tibia' which is located on the inside of the lower leg. The muscles surrounding the tibia pull on it when they are overworked, causing the lower leg pain that is the main characteristic of this syndrome. This syndrome is of two types; Type One and Type Two. Type one is caused by a stress reaction of the shin bone before a stress fracture. Type two is caused by an irritation occurring on the outer surface of the shin bone.

Causes
The most common cause of this condition is overload or improper exercise training and bio-mechanical inefficiency. Training errors include exercising or running on ground that is uneven, concrete surfaces, long intervals or gaps between exercising, sudden increase in the duration, running downhill, frequency or intensity of exercising and the shoes that do not fit correctly. Bio-mechanical inefficiency includes flat feet, muscle tightening and improper running techniques.

Symptoms
The symptoms include a sharp aching pain in the shin area, swelling of the lower leg, tenderness and redness in the shin area, pain while pointing toes downwards and the weakening of the bones in the shin area. However, the syndrome can be diagnosed by undergoing bone scans, MRI scans, x-rays and compartment pressure tests.

Treatment
Once this condition is successfully diagnosed and all other similar disorders are ruled out, treating it becomes a lot easier. For severe pain and inflammation along with redness in the shin area, Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed that ease the pain and swelling. Topical application of anti-inflammatory gels or ointments may also be required. Applying ice packs to the affected area could be helpful in treating the condition. In fact, adopting the PRICE (Protection, rest, ice, compression and elevation) strategy is advised for those suffering from this syndrome. Keeping the leg at an elevated position will help a great deal in reducing the swelling. Rest is of utmost importance for speedy and healthy recovery. Care needs to be taken that no further trauma or stress is caused to the affected leg, or else it cold lead to the development of a stress fracture. A physiotherapist or sports injury expert will be able to guide you regarding the exercises that need to be followed on a daily basis.

Preventing this condition is easier than treating it. Indulging in a proper warm up, wearing the right footwear and exercising in the right manner can help prevent a lot of problems associated with exercising. Recovery will depend upon how well you take to the recovery process and allow and aid the healing of the shin splint.