The most common cause of shin pain is trauma or injury to the feet. Though little bit of rest and cold compression is the trick, on some occasions shin pain is chronic in nature and requires a long term treatment therapy. Simple home remedies are beneficial in the management of shin pain.
Shin Bone Pain Causes
Shin bone pain also referred to as shin splints are a painful condition of the legs which is common among athletes. The condition is more prevalent in athletes who run on hard surfaces rather than those who have to run of soft or muddy surfaces. Though most athletes take special precautions like using special footwear to prevent the problem of shin pain, inexperienced and amateur athletes tend to be more prone to developing the condition.
Shin refers to the bone located on the front of the lower leg (i.e. below the knee). Extra pressure on the lower extremity may result in muscle strain which is considered to be a common cause of swelling and tenderness below the knee. Occasionally injury or trauma to the shin bone, resulting in fracture of the skin bone is also a common problem.
Shin Bone Cramps
Cramps refer to involuntary and severe contraction of muscles, which is often very painful. The shin portion of the lower lack is devoid of muscles, however, shin bone pain can result in alteration of walking or running patterns which tend to put extra pressure on the muscles of the calf (located on the posterior part of the shin bone). This extra stress on the muscles of the calf can result in cramps which are often very painful.
In addition, nutritional deficiencies of Calcium, Magnesium and other essential nutrients can result in muscle cramps. Dehydration is another common cause which is associated with cramps
Shin Bone Pain Treatment
Here are some simple tips to manage shin bone pain,
- Rest and Cold compress is considered effective in the management of shin bone pain
- Cramps are usually associated with cold temperature. Hence it is important to keep the legs warm. Regular exercises of the calf muscles can help keep the calf warm. Soak your legs in warm water in regular basis. This increases the circulation of the blood in the legs and keeps them warm
- Nutrient deficiencies are also commonly associated with pain in the shin. Include nutritional supplements like calcium, Vitamin B complex, etc in your diet. Alternatively increase the intake of fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet. These foods contain potassium and magnesium which are essential to maintain hemostatisis and prevent cramps
- Simple physical therapy exercises comprising of lifting the legs, rotating the ankle joint and lounges are beneficial in strengthening the muscles of the upper and lower legs. This not only improves the blood circulation in the lower extremities but also strengthens the muscles.