collection

Shin Splints (MTSS)

Introduction

If you're a runner you've probably heard the term, shin splints. A very nasty injury and unfortunately one of the most common in runners. It is also common in gymnasts, volleyball players, basketball players and military personnel, among others. The name we physios use for shin splints is medial tibial stress syndrome, or MTSS, which stands for an overuse of the inside of your shin. 

 

That name doesn't actually say wanyexactly which structure in your lower leg is overloaded, and that's because a lot is still unclear about the cause of MTSS. By taking a moment to look at the anatomy of the lower leg, we can begin to understand MTSS a little better.
understanding.

The anatomy of the lower leg
Your lower leg is formed by 2 bones: your tibia and fibula. Your tibia is the large bone that you can easily feel on the front and inside of your lower leg. Your fibula is a bit more hidden on the outside. The bones are connected by a strong connective tissue plate that gives extra stability and strength to the lower leg. Around the bones is a bone membrane that is very sensitive. That's why it hurts so much when you bump your shin into something.


More than 10 muscles have an attachment to the lower leg. Most of them provide movement in the ankle and foot.

Open the video to learn more about shin splints (MTSS).

Exercises