- What it is
- Overloaded tissue along the shin bone
- How we treat it
- Focused shockwave + corrective exercise
- Typical plan
- Usually 3 to 6 sessions
- Referral
- Not needed
What are shin splints?
Shin splints is pain along the inside edge of the shin bone, where muscles attach to the bone. It happens when the bone and surrounding tissue are loaded faster than they can adapt, most often in runners and people who suddenly increase their activity. The medical name is medial tibial stress syndrome.
Common symptoms
- An ache along the inside edge of the shin
- Pain during running that may ease as you warm up
- Soreness after activity or the next morning
- Tenderness along a stretch of the bone
What causes it
- Increasing running distance or speed too quickly
- Running on hard surfaces or in worn out shoes
- Flat feet and weak calf and hip muscles
- Starting a new sport or training season
How we treat it
We look at your feet, calves, hips, and how you run to find what's overloading the shin. Then we build a plan around three steps:
- Focused shockwave therapy for the painful area
- Soft tissue work on the calf and lower leg
- Corrective exercises for your feet, calves, and hips, plus a plan to build back up to your running
Where we see you
We have two offices, both inside Parkway Athletic Club and open to everyone, no gym membership needed. South Reno is on Double Diamond Parkway, close to Damonte Ranch and South Meadows. Sparks is on East Lincoln Way, near The Outlets at Legends.
Questions
Does shockwave therapy hurt?
Richard Wolf, the maker of our PiezoWave2T, describes the treatment as gentle and for the most part pain-free. Most people feel a firm tapping, and we adjust the intensity to your comfort. No needles or anesthesia.
How many sessions will I need?
Usually 3 to 6 sessions, each about 10 to 20 minutes. Dr. Covert will map out your plan at your first visit based on your exam.
When should I see a medical doctor instead?
If the pain is in one small spot that hurts even at rest or at night, see a medical doctor, since that can be a stress fracture that needs imaging. If your lower leg becomes very tight, swollen, or numb during exercise, get checked urgently.
Is shockwave covered by insurance?
Shockwave therapy isn't covered by insurance. Call us for current pricing, and we'll go over the cost before you start.
Paying yourself? You have the right to a Good Faith Estimate
Do I need a referral?
No referral needed. You can book directly with Dr. Covert online or by phone.