Shin splints can put a real dampener on your daily activities, especially when you're a sprightly senior keen on maintaining an active lifestyle. If you've experienced those nagging pains down the front of your lower leg, you may already be familiar with this common nuisance. Once you recognize the signs of shin splints and explore the treatment options, you can make better decisions for your care.
What Are Shin Splints?
Shin splints, or medial tibial stress syndrome, is a condition characterized by pain along the inner edge of your shin bone due to excessive pressure, overuse, or even minor injuries. They typically occur when the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue around your shinbone become overstressed. For our vibrant seniors who enjoy physical activities like brisk walking or light sports, shin splints can become an unwelcome visitor.
What Are the Signs of Shin Splints?
The symptoms of shin splints are relatively easy to identify. The most common sign is a recurring dull ache in the front part of the lower leg. Other symptoms include tenderness or soreness along the inner part of your lower leg and mild swelling in the leg. You should note that the discomfort may stop when you cease exercising, but ignoring the pain can lead to more complex issues. You need to take steps to prevent shin splints or to ensure you don't make the condition worse.
How to Prevent Shin Splints
Preventing shin splints often revolves around taking care of your body and being mindful during physical activities. Wearing comfortable, appropriate, and supportive footwear can significantly reduce the risk. Also, varying your exercise routine can help, by not overstraining one specific muscle group. Regular stretching before and after your workouts can go a long way in preventing shin splints. Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce unnecessary strain on your legs. You always want to check with your doctor before starting any new exercises.
Treatment for Shin Splints
When it comes to treatments, rest is often the best remedy. Allowing your body to heal naturally is vital in overcoming shin splints. Ice packs can also provide relief from inflammation and pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers may also be beneficial, but they should be used under a healthcare provider's guidance. Regularly performing strength and balance exercises can also aid in the recovery process and further prevent reoccurrence.
Senior Helpers Webster Groves Helps Seniors With Shin Splints
Understanding, preventing, and treating shin splints can greatly improve your quality of life as a senior. If you live in St. Louis City, St. Louis County, Webster Groves, Richmond Heights, or Oakville and need assistance with shin splints or any other aspect of senior care, Senior Helpers Webster Groves, we recognize the unique needs of our senior clients, and we provide personalized care services, including support for handling conditions like shin splints. From ensuring you maintain an appropriate exercise routine to helping you with pain relief measures, our dedicated helpers can assist you in preventing and treating shin splints effectively. Contact us today.