Treatment & Prevention of Shin Splints with Shreen Lashien

CLICK HERE to learn more about the Run Smarter Database 📄🔍For MORE Run Smarter Resources 🏃‍♂️📚- Including Free Injury Prevention Courses 🩹🎓- The Run Smarter Book 📖- Access to Research Papers 📄🔍- & Ways to Work with Brodie 🤝👟👉 CLICK HERE! 🎉✨Guest: Shreen Lasheen, PhD Candidate in Orthopedic Physical Therapy, Cairo UniversityEpisode Summary:In this insightful episode, we sit down with Shreen Lasheen, a leading researcher specializing in running-related injuries, particularly shin splints (medial tibial stress syndrome). With years of clinical and research experience, Shreen shares her deep understanding of shin splints, how they develop, and evidence-based strategies for treatment and prevention. Runners at all levels will gain valuable tips to stay injury-free and optimize their performance.Key Topics Discussed:1. Understanding Shin SplintsDefinition & Causes: An overuse injury due to excessive ground reaction forces causing inflammation of the tibia’s periosteum or bone microdamage.Pathology Theories: Traction from the calf muscles and direct bone overload.2. Diagnosis & SymptomsHow to Differentiate Shin Splints from Other Injuries:Stress Fracture Test: One-leg hop test (unable to hop = potential stress fracture).Compartment Syndrome Signs: Numbness, tingling, and pale skin.Key Symptoms: Diffuse pain along the inner shin, worsening with activity and improving with rest.3. Treatment and RehabilitationRest and Recovery: Following MRI grading-based rest periods (2-9+ weeks).Rehabilitation Exercises:Strength Training: Hip abductor exercises such as pelvic drops, side-lying hip abductions, and single-leg bridges.Flexibility Work: Calf stretches and ankle dorsiflexion exercises.Balance Exercises: Progressing from two-leg to single-leg stability tasks.Supportive Therapies: Ice application, kinesio taping, and potential use of orthotic insoles.4. Prevention Tips for RunnersTraining Adjustments: Run on softer surfaces (grass, sand, synthetic tracks) for most runs; limit road running.Footwear Selection: Use appropriate shoes based on individual foot mechanics (shock-absorbing or pronation control insoles).Gradual Progression: Increase mileage gradually to allow for musculoskeletal adaptation.What Recreational Runners Will Learn:How to recognize the early signs of shin splints.Evidence-based treatment options to speed recovery.Strength and mobility exercises to reduce injury risk.Best practices for shoe selection and surface adaptation.The importance of balancing training loads to stay injury-free.Connect with Shreen Lasheen: Instagram, FaceBook