Arch Supports and Massage Techniques for Shin Splints

Therapy for shin splint pain can be distressing for those unfortunate enough to suffer from this ailment. From the sensitive nerves to not being able to place pressure on the leg, it is one of the most painful foot ailments. Nonetheless, with the proper physician attention, shin splint pain relief is possible in most cases. Including the proper use of orthotics and a few new massage methods, relief is finally in sight.

Shin Splints is Caused by Several Factors

Shin splints are commonly occurring injuries that are caused by some of the following major factors:
• Anterior muscles that are out of shape or tight posterior leg muscles
• Jogging on a hard surface or a sudden increase of physical activity
• Having fallen arches
• Wearing poor athletic footwear including lack of heel cushion or shoes with little support

These factors can become a life-changing injury if your career depends upon your fitness level and being on your feet. Police officers, for example, they must maintain good fitness so they can keep up with their requirements on the job. With better upkeep of fitness, however, shin splint pain can quickly cause many problems in the long term.

Make Foot Orthotics a Part of Your Footwear Routine

Medical studies have proven that arch supports help relieve shin splint pain by cushioning the heel as well as providing arch support. These are a few of the major reasons listed above that can be handled immediately. Some athletic arch supports are specially made to cushion the heels and support the feet. These devices diminish the impact to be absorbed into the inserts rather than allowing the joints to absorb most of the impact. For people with flattened arches, arch supports made for for sports can be purchased with firm arches so that proper arch support is provided to the feet. The use of appropriate arch support is essential to the efficient functioning of our feet.

Treating Shin Splints Involves More than Resting

Stretching and strengthening the lower leg muscles as well as icing the area and taking anti-inflammatory drugs can really help, but there’s more that can be done. Massage therapy can cause a marked improvement in the overall healing time. One of the massage methods is to massage under water. Massaging underneath cold water is recommended, because it can greatly help to lessen the swelling.

Learn How Massage Can Alleviate Shin Splints

One underwater massage method involves first dunking the lower legs in a container with ice cubes. This will lessen the swelling and also help the nerves to become less irritated. Never press thumbs into the shins, since this can cause extreme discomfort for the person. Instead, without even touching the person, have them point their toes and flex their foot while their shins are submerged. This not only self-massages the inner muscles, but helps bring blood to the area. It also strengthens the anterior tissues while stretching the posterior muscles simultaneously.

Learn How Massagers Can Remove Shin Splints

Another massage that is highly effective for shin splint pain is by way of a battery-operated or plug-in massager that vibrates as it massages. With tossues ultra-sensitive to being touched, giving a skin-to-skin massage simply isn’t the best option. Some types wrap around the leg via a neoprene sleeve while others are in the shape of a square and can be placed flat on the floor or on top of the shin. For stiff posterior leg muscles, a roller-type massage machine (handheld) can also be great for massaging calf muscles.

You no longer have to let shin splint pain stop you from living. With the everyday use of arch supports and these massage therapies; shin splint pain can be painless and aid in healing.