Do you struggle with frequent shin splints? Chronic shin pain can be caused by problems in your foot arches, muscle imbalances, or wearing unsupportive footwear. Fortunately, chiropractic care offers safe, effective treatments that relieve pain and help prevent future flare-ups.

Shin splints—also known as medial tibial stress syndrome—involve inflammation of the muscles, tendons, and connective tissue along the tibia (shin bone). They are common in:

• Runners and walkers

• Dancers and gymnasts

• Athletes in stop-and-start sports like basketball, soccer, and tennis

Shin splints often arise after an intense or prolonged activity session. Overworked or tight calf muscles place stress on the surrounding tendons, triggering pain. Other contributing factors include:

• Tight calf muscles

• Lack of proper stretching

• Unsupportive or worn-out footwear

• Flat feet or high arches

A key goal of chiropractic care is to restore proper alignment throughout your body—especially your spine and lower extremities. Misalignments (subluxations) can increase stress on muscles and joints, making you more susceptible to injury.

A key goal of chiropractic care is to restore proper alignment throughout your body—especially your spine and lower extremities. Misalignments (subluxations) can increase stress on muscles and joints, making you more susceptible to injury.

Common Chiropractic Treatments for Shin Splints

1. Spinal and Extremity Adjustments

Realigning the spine, knees, ankles, and feet reduces muscle tension and promotes better body mechanics. These adjustments also support better circulation and faster healing.

2. Massage Therapy

Massage relieves muscle tension, reduces pain, and improves mobility. Percussion massage—using vibrating rollers or massage devices—can effectively break up scar tissue and improve blood flow.

3. Custom Orthotics (Shoe Inserts)

Poor foot biomechanics often contribute to shin splints. Custom orthotics support proper arch alignment and foot motion. According to the American Journal of Sports Medicine, over 75% of long-distance runners experienced reduced lower leg pain after using orthotics.

4. Soft Tissue Mobilization

This hands-on therapy uses instruments to break up adhesions, release tension, and reduce scar tissue buildup around the tibia.

5. Stretching & Strengthening Exercises

Your chiropractor can guide you through specific exercises that stretch tight calf muscles and strengthen weak shin muscles—restoring balance and preventing recurrence.

6. Ultrasound Therapy

Ultrasound uses sound waves to gently heat deep tissues, promoting circulation, reducing inflammation, and accelerating healing.

7. Taping Techniques

Kinesiology taping helps offload stress from the shin area and supports proper movement patterns. Your chiropractor will show you how to apply it correctly for daily support.

8. Dry Needling

If muscle knots (trigger points) are contributing to your shin pain, dry needling can release these tight fibers and restore normal muscle function.

Chiropractic care addresses the root causes of shin splints—not just the symptoms. By improving alignment, relieving soft tissue tension, and supporting biomechanical balance, chiropractors help you heal naturally and prevent further injuries.

Sick of dealing with shin splints? Let us help you move pain-free again.
📞 Contact our office today to Schedule your chiropractic evaluation.