Shin splint(lower leg pain)in elders while walking or standing.

Shin splint(lower leg pain) is very common in old age.

There are many reasons of this type of leg pain.In home health care we have observed the main reason is shin splint.

Pain of this mainly occurs around calf area.Uneven pressure on legs cause tightness in calf area.In weight bearing activities this muscle comes under stress leads to tightness.When this tightened muscle repeatedly compressed gives rise to pain.

Shin splint signs and symptoms.

• Pain in calf area.
• Tenderness along the outer border of lower leg.
• Nodule formation in muscle belly mainly over back of knee.

What are the specific symptoms of lower leg pain?

• Pain on one side of the lower leg, it can be on the inner side or the outer side.
• Burning sensation over the Calf area after prolonged standing.

 Prevention of lower leg pain.

• Gentle ankle, toe exercises under the guidance of trained and experienced Physiotherapist.
• Patient care giver can gently massage over the Calf area in the downward direction.
• To break the nodules in calf area use cross friction massage. It is advisable that this  is done by a physiotherapist.
• Patient Caretaker can counsel their elderly to make use of walking aid. It is very helpful in avoiding uneven pressure on legs.
• Stretching of gastrocnemius and Soleus muscles.
• Self stretching has been found very effective.
• They can do self stretching with the help of their patient attendants.
• Hot fomentation 2 to 3 times a day is useful.