Final answer:
Medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS), also known as shin splints, is a common overuse injury that affects the lower leg. It is caused by the excessive stress placed on the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue in the lower leg, leading to pain and inflammation. Treatment involves rest, ice, compression, elevation, and physical therapy exercises.
Step-by-step explanation:
Medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS), also known as shin splints, is a common overuse injury that affects the lower leg. It is characterized by pain along the inner edge of the shinbone or tibia. MTSS often occurs in runners, dancers, and athletes who participate in activities that involve repetitive impact on the legs, such as jumping or running on hard surfaces.
The primary cause of MTSS is the excessive stress placed on the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue in the lower leg. This stress prevents the body's natural healing processes from keeping up with the damage, leading to inflammation and pain. Contributing factors include improper footwear, overtraining, poor running technique, and biomechanical imbalances.
Treatment for MTSS usually involves a combination of rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), along with physical therapy exercises to strengthen the lower leg muscles and improve flexibility. Modifying training routines, using appropriate footwear, and gradually increasing activity levels can help prevent the recurrence of MTSS.