Shin splints - shin splints orthotics

shin splints the aim of orthotics

The aim of a shin splint foot orthotic is to correct dysfunctional biomechanics and therefore:

Reduce pain of shin splints.
Provide support for shin splints.
Prevent or halt the development of foot deformity that can cause shin splints.
Provide better positioning to help prevnt shin splints.
Relieve pressure on a certain area of the foot.
Improve the overall biomechanical function of the foot and the lower limb.
Help prevent lower shin splints
Speed up rehabilitation after a shin splints injury.

orthotics are orthopaedic devices that are placed in an athletes shoes in an attempt to correct shin splints . They are made out of a variety of compounds including rigid materials such as carbon fibre. At meditech we feel that the orthotic should not compromise the shock absorbency of the sports shoe it is worn in so all our orthotics are made from compounds that are used by the leading sports footwear manufacturers. Many professional athletes wear orthotics for shin splints.

shin splints think you need orthotics?

If so it is advisable to have a consultation with a sports podiatrist to have a full biomechanical evaluation to whether or not you have a biomechanical problem that would benefit from an orthotic prescription. If you live in the northwest of England have go to www.sportspodiatry.co.uk or visit one of our sponsored links.

shin splints types of orthotics

There are three types of orthotics: soft, semirigid, and rigid.

[Soft Orthotic Image] A soft orthotic is pictured here. Its function is to provide cushion, improve shock absorption, decrease shear force, and redistribute pressure. This type of orthotic is indicated for a person with boney shin splints . It provides little support which is not needed in this particular instance. The most important aspect is to cushion the rigid foot and decrease the force so that injury is prevented.

[Semi-rigid Orthotic Image] The next is a semirigid orthotic which is seen here. This orthotic functions to control or balance the malaligned foot as well as provide some flexibility and shock absorption. It has increased compliance and is the most common orthoic prescribed. Those individuals with flat feet are the beneficiaries of this type of orthotic.

shin splints why prescribe orthotics?

Biomechanical problems causing shin splints can increase stresses within the foot structures and the surrounding soft tissues, creating localised pain in the in the lower leg. Correction of poor foot biomechanics may help improve and prevent many types of problems such shin splints