Summer is the perfect time to get outside and engage in all sorts of sports and activities. Whether it’s running on the beach, playing volleyball in the park, or hitting the trails for a hike, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the sunshine. However, with increased activity comes a higher risk of injuries, particularly to the feet and ankles. One common ailment that plagues many summer enthusiasts is shin splints. But fear not! With the right precautions and care, you can keep your lower limbs happy and healthy all season long.

Understanding Shin Splints

Firstly, let’s understand what shin splints are. Shin splints, or medial tibial stress syndrome, are characterized by pain along the shinbone (tibia), usually on the front of the shin . They often occur due to rapid increase in overuse, improper footwear, and tight achilles tendons overpowering your front shin muscles . The repetitive stress placed on the shinbone during activities like running, jumping, or dancing can lead to inflammation of the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue in the area causing shin splints or mimicking a shin splint but actually be a tibia stress fracture

So, how can you prevent shin splints and other foot and ankle injuries during your summer sports endeavors? Here are some tips:

• Warm-Up and Stretch: Before diving into your activity, spend a few minutes warming up with dynamic movements like leg swings, lunges, and ankle circles. Follow it up with gentle stretches targeting the calves, shins, and ankles to increase flexibility and reduce the risk of injury.
• Choose Proper Footwear: Invest in footwear specifically designed for your chosen activity. Shoes that provide adequate support, cushioning, and stability can significantly reduce the strain on your feet and lower legs. Replace worn-out shoes to ensure optimal performance and injury prevention.
• Gradually Increase Intensity: If you’re starting a new sport or ramping up your training, do so gradually. Sudden spikes in activity level can overwhelm your muscles and lead to overuse injuries like shin splints and tibial stress fractures. Listen to your body and give it time to adapt to the demands of your chosen activity.
• Cross-Train: Incorporate a variety of activities into your fitness routine to prevent overuse injuries. Mixing high-impact activities with low-impact ones can help distribute stress more evenly throughout your body and reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries.
• Rest and Recovery: Don’t forget the importance of rest days and proper recovery techniques. Allow your body ample time to repair and rebuild after intense workouts. Incorporate foam rolling, stretching, and gentle massages to alleviate muscle tension and promote circulation.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a fun-filled summer of sports and outdoor activities while keeping your feet and ankles free from the discomfort of shin splints and other common injuries. If you’re trying to get your feet summer ready and keep your body injury-free, schedule an appointment with the North Texas Foot & Ankle team! We often have same-day availability, so we can help you get on the road to recovery fast.