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More likely to occur the heavier you are (e.g. rugby players) because they have a greater impact with the ground. Running on softer ground can reduce the chances of developing shin splints, as does switching to a lower-impact activity such as swimming.
The purpose of the muscles of the anterior shin (tibialis anterior) is to dorsiflex the foot (raise the toe). It may not be obvious why a muscle which raises the toe can be stressed or injured by running, given that it is not responsible for propulsion. The reason is that unskilled runners overstride, and land heavily on the heel with each foot strike. When this happens, the forefoot rapidly slaps down to the ground. Effectively, the foot, which is dorsiflexed prior to making contact with the ground, is forcefully extended. This forceful extension of the toe causes a corresponding rapid stretch in the attached muscles. A reflex in the muscles responds, causing a powerful contraction. It is this eccentric contraction which leads to muscle soreness and possible injury to the muscle, tendon or connective tissue.
If a foot pushes off almost entirely from the big toe, this can cause excessive strain on the big toe and the outside of the shin. In contrast, dorsiflexion, occurs when the foot does not roll enough. This causes the entire weight of the foot strike to concentrate on too small of an area on the outside of the foot which places a corresponding strain on the shin.
It is also commonly believed that a contributing cause of shin muscle pain in some cases is the relative weakness of the muscles on the anterior of the lower leg compared to those in the calf. In this case exercises that preferentially strengthen the anterior muscles may help alleviate or avoid shin splints. The shin pain is attributed to a forced extension of the muscle, in this case by the opposing calf muscles which "overpower" the shin. While running you will feel extreme discomfort. Shin splints also occur when the arch of your foot collapses particularly in the back between the heel and the middle of the arch.
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Important notice:
The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other
qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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