Lower Leg

Shin Splints

This is caused by muscle tension pulling at the periostium of the tibia (sheath surrounding the bone) which causes inflammation and tenderness over the front and inside of the tibia (shin bone). This is typically an overuse injury.

Symptoms:

  • Pain over the front and inside of the shin
  • Small raised nodules or bumps over the shin
  • Pain at the start of exercise

Bupa Article on Shin Splints

Untreated shin splints can lead to a stress reaction in the tibia mid-shaft

Medial Meniscus Injury

The medial meniscus is a crescent shaped structure which sits between the tibia (shin bone) and femur (thigh bone). Its role is as a shock absorber and also to make the bones more congruent (fit together). As more weight goes through the inside of the knee, the medial meniscus is more bound down and has attachments to the medial collateral ligament. It is commonly injured through impact to the knee, from a twisting motion or through wear and tear as one ages.

Symptoms:

  • Instability and reduced weight bearing on that side
  • Pain and swelling within 48 hours
  • Locking of the knee
  • Positive orthopaedic test – McMurrays and Apleys (done by your osteopath)

Article from ‘NetDoctor’

The meniscus functions to distribute your body weight across the knee joint

Growing Pains

These often come on from 7-12 years of age and affect 20-45% of children. It is often caused through muscle pain rather than growth of bones and is made worse after a particularly athletic day.

Symptoms:

  • Pain in the afternoon and night but not every day
  • Pain in the thighs or calves but the joints appear normal
  • Growing pains are diagnosed by ruling other more serious conditions out. So if unsure please see your GP or visit us for a full medical case history

Article from KidsHealth

Growing pains always concentrate in the muscles, rather than the joints