Prevention of shin splints
shin taping
Prevention of shin splints: shin taping
Bandages, strapping and taping are commonly seen adorning the limbs of sportspeople and the technique of applying such items is a valuable skill learned by physiotherapists, sports therapists or coaches working with athletes.
stretching exercises
Prevention of shin splints: stretching exercises
A programme of regular stretching exercises can help to promote greater flexibility in the muscle groups connected to the shin (tibia). Improving the flexibility can lower the stresses placed upon the bone and so reduce the risk of developing shin splints.
Thera-Band Exercises
Prevention of shin splints: Thera Band exercises
A programme of stretching exercises may be prescribed by a physiotherapist or sports therapist as part of the rehabilitation process when recovering from shin splints. The same exercises can also be useful as a preventative measure as they will help to develop and maintain a greater degree of flexibility in the lower leg, ankle and foot. In many cases, the only piece of equipment needed to perform all of the exercises is a stretchy elastic band known by the trade name of Thera-Band.
Strengthening exercises
Understanding the most common causes of shin splints is the first important step towards preventing their occurrence in the first place and, equally, ensuring they never occur again if already suffered.
The muscular form of shin splints can be further divided into a number of more location specific conditions. An effective method of preventing muscular shin splints is simply to strengthen the muscles which may be affected in each location:
