REHABILITATION STRATEGIES FOR MEDIAL TIBIAL STRESS SYNDROME: A PHYSIOTHERAPY PERSPECTIVE

Kristian Stoychev

doi:10.35120/medisij040457s

Authors

Kristian Stoychev Theory and Methodology of Kinesitherapy, NSA “Vasil Levski” – Sofia, Bulgaria, Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.35120/medisij040457s

Keywords:

Physiotherapy, medial tibial stress syndrome, rehabilitation, chronic overuse

Abstract

Chronic overuse is a social problem that affects not only athletes but also the general population. It can lead to a variety of injuries, including microtears, stress fractures, tendinitis, and articular cartilage damage. Medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS), commonly known as "shin splints," is a frequent overuse injury among athletes and physically active individuals. It is often ignored or mismanaged, which results in complications, reduced physical activity, and impaired quality of life. MTSS is characterized by pain along the medial border of the tibia induced by physical activity, often associated with repetitive loading, biomechanical dysfunctions, and training errors. Pain typically worsens with activity and subsides with rest. Risk factors include gender, navicular bone drop, elevated body mass index, high-intensity activities, and increased external hip rotation range in males. Patients often report bilateral pain in the distal leg, particularly on the anterior and medial aspects. The medial tibial border—most commonly in the distal third—is a frequent pain site, though shin splints can affect the entire length of the tibia.

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