If you're a senior or caring for a senior loved one, you might have come across the term 'shin splints' during a visit to the doctor or while browsing health-related topics. It's a common complaint, especially among active seniors, and can come in the way of daily activities and overall well-being. Read on to learn more about shin splints, what causes them, and how to spot them. We'll also explore prevention measures and effective treatment plans, including some home remedies.
Overview of Shin Splints
Shin splints, scientifically known as medial tibial stress syndrome, is a condition that results in pain along the shin bone, the large front bone in the lower leg. This ailment typically surfaces when the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue around the shin bone become overworked due to increased activity. In seniors, this could occur from a sudden uptick in walking or sporting activities. Symptoms often include tenderness, soreness, pain along the inner part of the shin, and sometimes, swelling in the lower leg.
Preventing Shin Splints in Seniors
Preventing shin splints is crucial, particularly for seniors. As we age, our bodies take longer to heal, making prevention the key to maintaining mobility and independence.
Exercise Regularly, and Be Sure to Stretch!
Regular but moderate lower leg exercises can help strengthen those muscles. You need to wear shoes that fit well and offer good support, and ensure you stretch well after any physical activity. If you're suddenly experiencing shin splits, check with your doctor before modifying your exercise routine.
Eat a Healthy Diet
A balanced diet helps ensure your body has the necessary nutrients to stay strong and healthy. Adequate hydration also plays an essential role in preventing shin splints and other muscular issues.
Treating Shin Splints in Seniors
If you or your loved one are already dealing with shin splints, don't worry. With appropriate and timely treatment, full recovery is well within reach. Medical treatments usually include using anti-inflammatory painkillers to ease pain and reduce swelling. Physical therapy, often involving strength and flexibility exercises, can help manage and overcome shin splints.
At home, you can use ice packs on your shins for 20 minutes at a time to help reduce inflammation. Elevating your legs and reducing physical activities that cause discomfort can also help speed up recovery. Resting is of the utmost importance when it comes to healing shin splints.
Promoting the Overall Well-Being of Seniors
While preventing and treating shin splints, you should also focus on overall well-being. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and good sleep are vital for seniors to maintain a high quality of life. Keeping shin splints at bay is part and parcel of promoting this well-being.
Senior Helpers Sacramento-Placer County Helps Seniors Live a Healthy Lifestyle
Understanding shin splints, their cause, and symptoms, not to mention methods of prevention and treatment, is critical for any active senior. At Senior Helpers Sacramento-Placer County, we're dedicated to helping seniors in Sacramento, Roseville, Fair Oaks, Carmichael, and Loomis maintain their vitality and enjoy life. If you or your loved one need professional assistance managing health conditions like shin splints, then contact us.