Orthotics & Foot care
Patient Resources
Understanding is everything
Like any problem, any health condition needs to be properly understood in order to be improved.
With the wealth of information available online it can be easy to feel confused and overwhelmed about what’s right for you. Here you’ll find not only relevant information about orthotics and biomechanics but also common misconceptions and myths that I’ll set straight. Anything here that you’d like to discuss or find out more about, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Shin Splints
What Are Shin Splints?
Shin splints — medically known as medial tibial stress syndrome — refer to pain along the inner edge of the shinbone (tibia).
This pain often develops during or after exercise, especially activities involving repetitive impact like running, jogging, brisk walking or jumping.
The discomfort is typically caused by inflammation of the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue around the tibia (aka the periosteum, which plays, after a fracture, a vital role in the initial stages of bone repair).
This inflammation is usually due to overuse or biomechanical issues.​
Common Causes
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Sudden increase in activity – ramping up intensity or duration too quickly
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Improper footwear – worn-out or unsupportive shoes
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Running on hard or uneven surfaces
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Flat feet or overpronation – where the foot rolls inward excessively during walking or running
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Poor biomechanics – Joints misalignment or muscles imbalances
Myths About Shin Splints
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“Just rest and it’ll go away” – While rest may reduce pain, addressing the root cause (often biomechanical) is key to preventing recurrence.
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“Only runners get shin splints” – Any repetitive impact activity can trigger shin splints.
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“Stretching is enough” – Stretching helps, but it's rarely a standalone solution.
How to Prevent and Treat Shin Splints
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Gradually increase activity levels
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Cross-train to avoid repetitive strain
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Use supportive, well-fitted footwear
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Stretch and strengthen relevant muscle groups
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Address biomechanics and alignment
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Consult at expert in gait and biomechanics
How Orthotics Can Help
Custom orthotics can be a powerful tool in both the treatment and prevention of shin splints. By correcting foot mechanics, reducing overpronation, and supporting the arch, orthotics help distribute force more evenly and reduce strain on the lower leg.
Many patients find long-term relief and improved performance simply by addressing the way their feet interact with the ground.
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EXAMPLE OF THE TIBIALIS ANTERIOR SHIN SPLINTS
When running, the main role of the tibialis anterior muscle is to slow down your foot when it roles out, helping your foot to go from your heel to your forefoot without slapping the floor.
Each time you lack of foot support, your foot ends up slapping the floor and you pull very strongly that muscle which generates an inflammation on the shin: What we call the SHIN SPLINTS. The best way to treat shin splints is at first to get a pair of orthotics (full length) to guide your foot all the way from your heel to your toes. Then a proper pair of supportive trainers, and to use the right lacing method.
Additionally, to accelerate the healing process, keep in mind that your physiotherapist can help you a lot with your shin splints. Once supported and aligned with shoes and orthotics, your physiotherapist can work on your muscles (exercises, massages, acupuncture or needling.