Dealing with Persistent Shin Splints
At 17 years old, I've been grappling with shin splints for an entire year. Let me share my story. Up until recently, my training was strictly swimming, and I had hardly engaged in running or playing football. However, when I decided to commit to running every day for a week, pushing myself to the limit, that's when the shin splints emerged. After taking a two-month hiatus and consulting a doctor, I thought I was on the mend, only for the pain to resurface in just two weeks. I then opted for an extended recovery period, yet the shin splints returned again within a matter of weeks. It felt like an endless loop, and during my last two runs, the pain set in after just a few minutes. Seeking help, I visited a specialist, but unfortunately, they provided no diagnosis—no fractures or injuries were detected. I've attempted various remedies such as icing, stretching, and even shin scrapes, but nothing seems to alleviate the pain. Now, the discomfort is localized in the anterior region of my shins, affecting me not only while running but also during activities like jumping or climbing stairs—specifically around a few centimeters above my ankle, near the bone (at least, I hope I’ve described it clearly). I’m reaching out for advice since this situation has begun to take a toll on my mental health. The most frustrating part is that those around me seem to lack understanding or support in this struggle.
Answers (1)
4/2/2025, 12:30:48 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you've been through a challenging time with your shin splints, especially after trying various remedies and not seeing the improvement you hoped for. It's important to know that you're not alone in this struggle, and many people experience similar frustrations with shin splints. Here’s a summary of the main points, followed by explanations and actionable steps you can take to manage your symptoms effectively.
Main Points:
- Shin splints, or medial tibial stress syndrome, often arise from overuse or change in activity levels.
- Rest is crucial, alongside modifications to your training and focused management strategies.
Explanation:
Shin splints typically occur when the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue around your shin become overworked, commonly due to increased exercise intensity or changes in activity such as your recent transition from swimming to running. Given that your doctor and specialist found no fractures, it suggests that you may be dealing with a common yet often persistent issue that can take time to heal.
Your discomfort when engaging in activities like running, jumping, or navigating stairs indicates that your muscles and tissues may still be sensitive from the previous strain. Experiencing recurring symptoms can indeed take a toll on both your physical and mental well-being, so it's perfectly understandable to feel frustrated.
Next Steps:
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Modify Your Activity:
- Reduce the intensity and frequency of running. Aim for no running or high-impact activities for at least 2-3 weeks to allow your shins to heal.
- Consider low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling to maintain fitness without stressing your shins.
-
Implement a Gradual Return:
- When you do return to running, start with short distances and gradually increase intensity and frequency. For example, begin with walking and very short, slow runs.
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Strengthening and Stretching Routine:
- Focus on strengthening the muscles around the shins. Exercises like toe raises, heel walks, and calf stretches can be beneficial.
- Incorporate regular stretching of your calves and the muscles in front of your shins.
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Footwear Considerations:
- Ensure you have proper footwear suited for running, which can provide adequate support and cushioning. Replace worn-out shoes or consider visiting a specialized running store for recommendations.
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Explore Cross-training:
- In addition to swimming, consider activities like yoga or pilates that can help improve overall strength and flexibility without stressing your shins.
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Ice and Self-care:
- Continue to ice your shins after activities that cause discomfort. Aim for 15-20 minutes of icing several times a day, especially after exercise.
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Mental Health Support:
- Since this situation is affecting your mental well-being, talking to someone who understands your feelings—like a friend, family member, or counselor—might be helpful.
Lastly, remember that patience is key in recovering from shin splints. It may take time, but with conscious care and adjustments, you can work towards healing and rebuilding confidence in your activities. Keep tracking your symptoms, and if you need more specific support or changes, feel free to follow up.
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Cons: Surgical scar, longer recovery time (7-14 days in hospital) - Duration: 2-4 hours ### Option 3: **Liver Transplantation** - We have been advised this is not necessary as the portal vein is functional and liver health is improving. --- ## SPECIFIC QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER: 1. **With a functional portal vein (6.1 mm) and improving liver function (ALT normalized), is it advisable to pursue endovascular closure as the preferred treatment?** 2. **Despite ALT levels improving, the bilirubin remains consistently high (242). Should this be a cause for concern? Is there a prospect for it to normalize post shunt closure?** 3. **Are the hemangiomas/nodules (11.6×20.7 mm) linked to the shunt? Will they likely resolve following shunt repair?** 4. **How urgent is the proposed intervention? Is immediate action required, or is there flexibility to wait a few months?** 5. **What complications should we be vigilant for during the waiting period?** 6. **Regarding endovascular closure - what is the average success rate for infants aged 7 months? Are there concerns regarding the shunt size (9.9 mm)?** 7. **The measurement of the portal vein has shown improvement from 6.1 mm to 3.9 mm; should this be perceived as a positive sign or a reason for concern?** 8. **Are there special directives (diet modifications, medications) we should consider while awaiting the procedure?** 9. **Post-procedure, how long should we expect it might take for:** - Normalization of bilirubin levels? - Return of stool color to normal? - Resolution of jaundice? - Regression of hemangiomas? 10. **Can you recommend any specialized centers for pediatric Abernethy malformation treatments? We are located in Uzbekistan but are prepared to travel (to Turkey, Russia, South Korea, etc.)** --- ## ADDITIONAL INFORMATION - No family history of hepatic diseases - Pregnancy and delivery were normal - No additional congenital defects identified - Immunizations up to date - No history of bleeding disorders - No signs indicative of encephalopathy - Child is alert and engaged --- **I can supply actual MSCT images and comprehensive lab reports if they would be of assistance.** We sincerely appreciate any insights you can provide. We are striving to make the most informed decision regarding our daughter’s care and highly value expert medical opinions. **TL;DR:** 7-month-old diagnosed with Abernethy Type 2 malformation (9.9 mm portocaval shunt, patent portal vein). Liver functionality is improving (normalized ALT) while bilirubin remains elevated (242). Evaluating options between endovascular coil embolization and open surgery. Seeking expert advice on optimal treatment strategy and timing.