Shin & Calf Injuries

Causes and Symptoms of  Shin & Calf Injuries

The predisposing factor to lower leg pain is abnormal biomechanics. Extreme foot postures and /or muscular tightness or weakness alter lower limb mechanics. This results in reduced shock absorption and /or increased leg torsion when running thus overloading the hard and/or soft tissues of the lower limb leading to injury.

Also important is to assess the footwear, and modify the training types and loads to reduce the risk of these injuries.

Treatment will involve conducting a thorough assessment including analysis of muscle function and range of motion, observation of lower limb alignment and running mechanics, and using special screening and functional tests to arrive at the correct diagnosis.

Based upon this diagnosis an effective rehabilitation plan is prescribed.

Useful Information

Physiotherapy treatment for these injuries involves:

  • stretching,
  • mobilizations of joints,
  • restoring normal motor control.

How can we help?

If you are unable to travel to one of our practices due to lack of mobility or pain, we are available to come to your place of residence.

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Complications That May Occur If Injuries Are Not Treated

Shin pain is common in athletes, especially distance runners. The lay term “shin splints” is used to describe non specific leg pain. However shin pain usually involves one or more of the following pathologies:

  • Bone stress. This ranges from bone strain, to stress reaction and finally to stress fracture.
  • Vascular insufficiency. The causes include reduced blood flow, arterial entrapment and various vascular diseases. Eg DVT
  • Inflammation. This develops where muscles or fascia insert onto the shin. Eg. Medial Tibial Traction Periostitis
  • Increased compartment pressure. The lower leg consists of numerous muscle compartments. These compartments can develop swelling and pain due to inflammation and/or overuse. A condition known as Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome.
  • Nerve impingement. Lower leg pain due to nerves becoming compressed or entrapped.

Calf pain is a common complaint and if inadequately managed can persevere and recur for months. The most common types of calf injuries are strains, contusions, cramps and delayed onset of muscle soreness.

Each type of injury requires a specific treatment plan that can be effectively implemented after determining the correct diagnosis.

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We offer consultations, treatments and counselling.

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“The whole team at Southern Sports Physio have been very professional in helping me with my rehabilitation following my car accident. Their program not only dealt with my injuries, but they listened to what I wanted to gain from their treatment. This allowed me to return to the gym and resume my normal work duties as soon as possible. I would strongly recommend Southern Sports Physio to anyone needing specialist treatment for pain and injuries”

Micheal Langley

SES Health and Safety Officer