Conservative Options

Conservative treatments are primarily designed to decrease the inflammatory process associated with the pain of shin splints and reduce the excessive stress placed on tendon and bone. These options should be used in conjunction with the preventative measures just described.

Heat/Ice: Heat increases muscle blood flow prior to exercise and ice decreases post-exercise inflammation.

Anti-inflammatory Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) like Ibuprofen can enhance the body’s recovery from acute inflammatory reactions, especially when combined with rest. Physicians should be consulted on the proper medications.

Other: Other physician-mediated treatment plans include corticosteroid and ultrasound therapy to decrease the inflammatory process.