Treating shin splints with dry needling

Dry needling is an effective treatment for shin splints as it relieves muscle tension and promotes blood flow which reduces inflammation and eases pain.

Shin splints can be a painful condition which occurs at the front of your shins, either on the inner side, outer side, or both. In its early phases, it presents as muscle tension, weakness, fatigue, and overuse due to several factors such as increased exercise, poor foot biomechanics, and poor knee, hip, and core strength and control.

If shin splints is not managed properly in the initial phases, it can lead to bone stress injuries and then stress fractures, resulting in prolonged time away from exercise.

Shin splints are commonly seen in adolescents due to the effects of overtraining and muscles not coping with a growing body, but it can also affect people of any age with any of the risk factors outlined above.

How Does It Work?

Dry needling shin splints involves tiny microneedles being inserted into the tight muscles either side of the shin bone and will also usually be inserted into the calf muscle as this is commonly affected with shin splints.

The needles stimulate blood flow and deliver oxygen into the area, reducing tense muscles and breaking up any adhesions which supports healing. There should be a noticable reduction in pain shortly afterwards and improved flexibility.

Benefits of Dry Needling Shin Splints

1. Pain Relief: Dry needling targets trigger points and tight muscle bands, helping to reduce pain and discomfort in the shin area.
2. Improved Muscle Function: By releasing muscle tension, dry needling can enhance muscle function and flexibility, aiding in quicker recovery.
3. Increased Blood Flow: The technique promotes blood flow to the affected area, facilitating healing and reducing inflammation.
4. Reduced Muscle Tightness: Dry needling helps to alleviate muscle tightness, which can be a contributing factor to shin splints.
5. Enhanced Healing: The microtrauma caused by the needles can stimulate the body’s natural healing processes, leading to faster recovery.

Most patients will require 4-5 appointments with dry needling included as part of the treatment to determine the effect of dry needling on their symptoms. Dry needling forms an important part of physiotherapy management of shin splints in conjunction with soft tissue massage, blading, joint mobilisations, therapeutic ultrasound, stretching, strengthening, taping, foot supports, load management, and advice and education.

What to Expect During Treatment

• Initial Assessment: Your therapist will assess your condition to work out if dry needling is suitable for you.
• Treatment Session: Thin needles are inserted into specific points in the muscles of the shin. You may feel mild discomfort or a twitch response.
• Post-Treatment Care: Your physio may provide exercises and stretches to complement the treatment and promote healing.

Considerations

• Qualifications: Ensure the procedure is performed by a qualified and experienced practitioner.
• Results: While many people find relief with dry needling, individual responses can vary. It’s important to discuss any concerns with your therapist beforehand.

If you are interested in seeing one of our physiotherapists for dry needling of your shin splints, get in touch today!

By incorporating dry needling into your treatment plan, you can effectively manage the symptoms of shin splints and get back to your regular activities with reduced pain and improved muscle function. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact our experienced team at Graceville Physio.