It Could Be Tibialis Anterior Muscle Strain
If you’re experiencing pain anywhere from the bottom half of your leg (also known as your shin) down to your big toe, it’s not only frustrating, but concerning, too.
Many people with pain in this area assume they have shin splints, but did you know that “shin splints” is often used as an umbrella term for any pain, strain, and inflammation involving muscles around the shin?
This means that there could be a number of specific conditions causing the pain you’re experiencing, including tibialis anterior muscle strain.
If you’re seeking medical care for your symptoms, find a physiotherapy clinic near you and book an assessment for shin pain today.
Symptoms of Tibialis Anterior Muscle Strain
If you’re suffering from tibialis anterior muscle strain, it’s common to feel pain anywhere from your knee down to your big toe.
You might notice these symptoms at the front of your lower leg, ankle, and/or foot:
- Pain – burning, cramping, or aching
- Swelling
- Tension or pressure
- Weakness
Flexing your foot upward towards your body, walking or running, climbing stairs, and even operating the gas and brake pedals while driving can cause these symptoms to appear or flare up.
These symptoms may come and go or be persistent, and they may worsen depending on your activity level and how much you have exercised your leg muscles that day.
Have you noticed symptoms of pain in your shin and feel concerned? Book an assessment with a physiotherapist near you today.
Causes of Tibialis Anterior Muscle Strain
Your lower leg has four compartments—each one is made up of tissue, nerves, muscle, tendon, and blood vessels.
The tibialis anterior muscle runs along the outside of the tibia, or shin bone, and connects to the bone just behind your big toe.
If you’re experiencing front of leg and shin pain, you may have caused trauma to the area or the muscle directly by:
- Falling
- Increasing workout intensity or duration
- Striking the lower leg
- Running or jumping on hard surfaces
- Walking style, or gait
Are you worried about a recent injury causing shin pain? Book an assessment with a physiotherapist near you today.
Treatments for Tibialis Anterior Muscle Strain
If you’re experiencing pain, swelling, or weakness in the lower leg, ankle, or foot, it is best to seek an assessment from a qualified physiotherapist.
Your physiotherapist can offer you a customized treatment plan that can include:
- Activity modification
- Stretching/strengthening
- Hot/cold therapy
- Joint mobilization
- Re-injury prevention
The use of orthotics may also be recommended to help address your gait and relieve unnecessary strain on your legs.
Book A Physiotherapy Assessment for Shin Pain
Although it can be tempting to try and walk it off, you may be doing further damage to your leg.
If you’re experiencing shin pain, book an assessment today so we can help you to get well and stay well!