Shin splints are common among military personnel, ballet dancers, athletes, and other groups with rigorous training regimens.
While the condition can heal naturally, patients often turn to compression socks for pain relief. Specialists even recommend them for faster recovery. But can you rely on compression socks for shin splints?
What Are Shin Splints?
Shin splints cause pain along the tibia or shinbone. The medical reference is medial tibial stress syndrome, a form of inflammation that can cause sustained internal pressure and swelling. It’s mostly caused by altered or intense training routines when your bone tissue, muscles, and tendons strain from increased activity.
Symptoms include:
- Pain on the shin bone or lower inner leg
- Tenderness and swelling of the same area
- Mild discomfort that worsens with physical activity
So, Do Compression Socks For Shin Splints Work?
Yes. Compression socks push against shin pressure to relieve pain and tension while draining inflammatory fluids from the injured area. This pressure enhances foot blood circulation, directing nutrients to the tissue damage in your shins. Compression socks also serve a preventative role by reducing stress on the shins during strenuous activity.
Other Shin Splints Treatment Options
Although compression socks are effective for shin splints, you can incorporate other therapies for better outcomes.
Rest
Take frequent breaks from physical activity to alleviate symptoms and prevent further injury. Remember, physical strain is the primary cause of shin splints, and resting comes in handy to balance your routine.
Ice Therapy
In addition to easing your swelling, cold therapy temporarily numbs pain receptors, allowing the body to continue healing. You can apply ice on your calves and shin for around 15 minutes, repeating the process several times daily for three days.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy relieves joint and soft tissue tension and enhances blood flow. It also strengthens your legs to lower the chances of future injuries. Additionally, your physiotherapist can recommend stretching exercises to accelerate recovery at home.
You can manage your swelling with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. However, consult a doctor for the right dosage and advice on side effects such as heartburn and dizziness.
Let Us Handle Your Feet
Our specialists will evaluate your condition and recommend the best treatment, be it a break from sports, compression socks for shin splints, or arch supports. We offer superior podiatry to patients of all ages, relieving shin splints and other foot ailments. Additionally, you get to enjoy personalized care in a relaxed environment. Don’t struggle with shin splints by yourself. Contact Foot Specialists of Birmingham for a lasting solution.
