Are you new to the world of running and experiencing shin pain? Don’t be alarmed; you might be dealing with runner’s tibial periostitis. It’s not severe, but it does require attention.
Tibial periostitis is an inflammation of the periosteum, a thin membrane that covers the tibia (the large bone at the front of your lower leg). This condition commonly occurs in people who engage in high-impact activities like running, jumping, or walking long distances, especially when the intensity or duration of exercise is increased suddenly. It's often linked to excessive heel striking, which I’ll discuss in another post. Tibial pain requires resting and recovering The main symptoms of tibial periostitis include:
- Pain along the inner side of the shin: The pain usually occurs along the front or inside of the leg, along the bone, and may intensify when you touch the affected area.
- Pain during and after exercise: Initially, the pain might be mild and appear only during physical activity, but over time it can become constant, even at rest.
- Swelling and tenderness: The affected area may become swollen and tender to the touch.
Tibial periostitis is often associated with "medial tibial stress syndrome" (also known as "shin splints"), a broader term that covers any pain along the shin. It can be caused by a combination of factors such as:
- Overload or excessive training: Increasing the intensity or duration of exercise too quickly.
- Inappropriate footwear: Wearing shoes that do not provide adequate support.
- Hard surfaces: Running on hard surfaces like asphalt can contribute to the development of tibial periostitis.
Treatment for tibial periostitis typically includes rest, ice application, anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy, and, in some cases, adjustments to running technique or the use of orthotic inserts. It’s important to treat it properly to prevent the condition from worsening and potentially leading to a stress fracture.
Reflect on the cause— you might be subjecting your legs to excessive training, or your running technique may need improvement.
