How To Tape Shin Splints

How To Tape Shin Splints
A shin splint is an expression which is commonly given to any pain that happens at the front of someone’s lower leg. The pain will normally occur on a person’s shin at the front, inside area of the shin bone. The pain can result from a variety of causes. This article will explain some of the shin splint symptoms, how to tape shin splints, and what to do after a shin splint. Shin splint symptoms will come on gradually and they can consist of various levels of pain over the inside lower portion of the shin bone or tibia. Many athletes who experience this type of pain notice that it is more evident at the beginning of an exercise but as the exercise session continues, the pain will gradually ease off. However, they also notice that at the end of the training session the pain will recur but much worse. The pain that is often associated with a shin splint will be a lot worse the morning after but after a bit of gentle use it will ease off. A person may notice bumps, lumps, and swelling which can be felt along the inside of the shin bone. For severe cases, there may also be a reddening of the skin from acute inflammation. Anyone who has a shin splint requires effective treatment and accurate diagnosis as soon as possible. It should be noted that there are other injuries which can mimic shin pain. These other injuries include chronic compartment syndrome, poplitial artery entrapment, and stress fracture. The process of how to tape shin splints consists of purchasing quality shin splint tape to wrap up the shin splint, washing and drying of the leg, shaving the hair from the leg, applying an under wrap before taping, cutting the tape prior to application, wrapping the tape around your foot and then upwards around your shin, testing to make sure that the taping application is correct, and then removing the tape after your leg begins to feel better. Anyone who has suffered from a shin splint must also apply specific treatments after the shin splint tape has been removed. The treatments include taking time to rest so that your body can heal properly, applying an ice pack to the affected area, taking appropriate pain medication when necessary, visiting your doctor or physical therapist, and preventing future shin splints. It is important when preventing future shin splints to wear the right shoes and consider wearing an arch support if necessary. Also, it may be a good idea to change your exercise routine and only do lower impact activities for a period of time. Lower impact activities include things such as walking, swimming, or biking. You will also want to add strength training sessions. The reason for this is that it may be that you have weak calf or shin muscles. These type of exercises will help to prevent future shin splints. Otherwise, talk to your physical therapist on other ways to prevent future shin splints. Original article and pictures take http://mybodyrehab.com/how-to-tape-shin-splints/ site