Periosteum inflammation occurs particularly frequently on the shin. Primarily runners, ball sportsmen and dancers are affected, since with them the periosteum at the shinbone is strongly irritated. Cooling compresses and anti-inflammatory ointments are recommended for treatment. However, it is most important that the inflamed periosteum on the shin is extensively spared.
Overloading as a cause
Periosteum inflammation of the shin is usually the result of overuse. It often occurs in novice runners who train on hard surfaces such as asphalt and do not have sufficiently cushioned sports shoes. But problems with the periosteum are also not uncommon in sports such as basketball or volleyball, as well as disciplines such as long jump or high jump, due to the frequent bouncing and landing.
In addition to insufficiently cushioned sports shoes, other causes can be behind the overload: For example, a change in flooring, such as from indoor to outdoor, can have a negative effect. Changes in running technique and foot malpositions can also lead to problems with the periosteum. Furthermore, wearing new shoes or inappropriate insoles as well as frequent training in spikes or cleated shoes are possible triggers.
Pain as a symptom
Inflammation of the periosteum causes severe pain that is especially noticeable on the front of the shin. Typically, the pain is most pronounced at the beginning of exercise, often feeling a sharp pain after a short time. In most cases, the discomfort reoccurs during the next exercise, but in some cases the shins also hurt at rest.
In addition to pain, periostitis can also cause other symptoms. Thus, swelling and edema can occur on the shin. In addition, the inflamed area is often reddened and feels warm.
Treat periosteum inflammation of the tibia
If you have periostitis of the shin, you should take a break from exercising until the symptoms have subsided. This is especially recommended if the pain occurs not only during exercise but also during normal walking.
The pain can be relieved with anti-inflammatory medication and regular cooling of the shins.
5 Tips for exercising after periosteum inflammation.
If you have periostitis of the shin, it is important to increase your training only slowly after a sufficiently long break. Do not exercise too long or too frequently in the beginning. If pain occurs, stop training and rest again.
To avoid problems in the future, take a close look at your training once:
- Check your shoes: maybe it’s time to treat yourself to new athletic shoes with better cushioning. Spikes or cleated shoes should only be used occasionally for training.
- Have an orthopedist check your foot position as well as your running technique – you may need insoles. If you already have insoles, you should have the fit checked.
- Try to train mainly on soft ground, such as forest trails.
- Allow yourself enough time between workouts to regenerate.
- Perform regular exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles of the false leg.
