The Mechanics of Shin Splints

There are many symptoms caused by shin splints such as pain in the front or side areas of the lower leg. This pain can be dramatic and excruciating, especially when putting pressure on the affected leg. Swelling in the area can make the leg feel tight as well as make tissues appear swollen in the muscles. Regardless of what type of activities, from soccer to baseball any athlete can be afflicted by these conditions. Shin splints treatment should be started right away to begin the healing process immediately. Shin splints treatment guidelines followed by sports therapists includes rest, elevation, and icing of the painful area for one to two days. Ongoing physical therapy and preventive exercises include strength training moves and stretching of the Achilles tendon and the front leg muscles that surround the shin bone.

Twisting Injuries: How Weak Muscles Affect the Tendons and Ligaments

Another type of injury that is seen in impact sports is twisting of the ankle and knee. This is caused by either a forceful injury, which cannot be averted, or from weak muscles of the ankle, lower leg, and knee. Weak muscles can be strengthened with weight bearing or movements recommended by a sports therapist that target the muscular areas that support the knees and ankles. Weak muscles lead to loosened joints in the ankles and knees so that simple movements or shifts in position can cause twisting injuries. Another preventive measure for stopping these types of injuries are to support the arch of the feet with firm arch support. This can be accomplished specially-designed orthotics made for sports activities. The physicians at the Cleveland Clinic also recommend taping the arch for extra arch support during games.

How Tearing Injuries Happen

Rupturing of the ligaments or tendons are also typical kinds of sports injuries. This is most commonly found in the tendon in the back of the heel and the knee ligament. An Achilles injury is commonly caused by little flexibility in the heel tendon due to inadequate stretching technique. This is an important step in the warm-up routine that should never be skipped. Gentle stretches without force are suggested for anyone about to exercise. Holding the stretch for a minimum of 30 seconds, resting for a few moments, then repeating the stretch is what kinesiology specialists suggest. ACL (Anterior cruciate ligaments) are surrounding the knee area and help keep the knee structure together. Injuries to this area can be averted by strength training the knee , calf and quadriceps through curls and extensions of the leg. Orthotics can help avoid both of these styles of injuries by giving proper arch support, foot alignment, and cushioning.