Do you dread walking anywhere thanks to a mysterious pain that’s developed in your shins?
There are multiple possible explanations for a recurring pain in your shins whenever you go walking.
“Shin pain when walking can be due to exertional compartment syndrome, shin splints, tendonitis or stress fractures,” says Reggie Alexander, MD, an orthopedic surgeon with Orthopaedic Specialists in Los Angeles, CA.
Dr. Alexander explains, “It’s important to obtain a good history as to when and what events trigger the pain. In addition if appropriate, a dietary history may be important in making a diagnosis.”
Shin Pain from Exertional Compartment Syndrome
The pain from this usually does occur in the lower leg, and though it’s usually induced by exercise, particularly running, it can occur to those whose only activity is walking. There may also be tingling, numbness or weakness.
Pain from Shin Splints
Athletes and runners are more affected by this than are less active people, but again, walkers can get this condition of inflammation of the connective tissue in the lower leg.
Tendonitis
Tendons attach muscle to bone. An inflamed tendon, depending on the area of compromise, will make the lower leg hurt when walking.
Stress Fracture
A stress fracture is just that: a fracture from stress. The fracture is a tiny crack in a bone that’s too small to displace the bone.
What should be done?
“Possible solutions include proper stretching and warm-up, orthotics to correct alignment, activity modification and/or a short course of anti-inflammatory agents,” says Dr. Alexander.
Orthotics are custom-made shoe inserts that help realign the foot. Improper foot alignment can cause pain that travels up the leg. shi
Each specific possible cause for shin pain will have a unique course of treatment.
But regardless of cause, the common treatment among all will be that of reducing your walking time and/or intensity.
You may even need to back off entirely from non-essential walking until the injury heals.
Dr. Alexander’s sports experience covers many teams including those at the University of Chicago and at UCLA. Surgical and pain areas of expertise include the rotator cuff, ACL reconstruction, neck, back, hip and foot.
Lorra Garrick is a former personal trainer certified through the American Council on Exercise. At Bally Total Fitness she trained women and men of all ages for fat loss, muscle building, fitness and improved health.
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