Massage Techniques 101: Two Lower Leg Massages that Help Relieve Shin Splints
Posted in Fly Fishing Gear on the February 21, 2010
Therapy for shin splints can be difficult when the pain is too much to handle. From the sensitive nerves to difficulty putting pressure on the lower leg, it is one of the excruciating foot conditions. Nevertheless, with the proper physician attention, shin splints relief can be a welcomed light at the end of the tunnel. Applying the proper use of orthotics and a few new massage methods, pain relief is possible.
Shin Splint Pain is Caused by Several Factors
Shin splints are commonplace injuries that are caused by some of the following major factors:
- Wearing poor athletic footwear including lack of heel cushion or shoes with little support
- Suffering from flat arches
- Weak anterior muscles of the leg or tight posterior leg muscles
- Sprinting on a hard surface or a sudden increase of physical activity
These factors can become a life-changing injury if your career depends upon your fitness level and being on your feet. In the case of police officers, for example, they must stay fit and strong so they can keep up with their job. With increased fitness, however, shin splints can quickly turn into a major problem.
Shoe Orthotics Provide a Fix to Malformed Biomechanics
Several studies have demonstrated that orthotics help relieve shin splints by offering cushioning and arch support. These are a few of the major causes listed above that can be addressed right away. Some athletic orthotics are specially made to cushion the heels and support the feet. These devices diminish the shock to be absorbed into the inserts rather than allowing the joints to take in the majority of the shock. For people with flattened arches, orthotics made for for athletes can be purchased with proper arches so that proper arch support is provided to the feet. Wearing proper arch support is critical to normal foot function.
Treating Shin Splint Pain Involves More than Resting
More can be done for the lower legs aside from strengthening and stretching the muscles as well as keeping the affected area iced and rested. Massage treatments can make a huge difference in the time required for healing. One recommended exercise is to massage under water. Water massage using cold water is highly recommended, because it can help to decrease inflammation.
Massage Techniques are the Answer to Shin Splint Pain
One underwater massage method involves first soaking the below the knee area in a bathtub with some ice cubes. This will lessen the swelling and also help the nerves to become less irritated. Do not jam fingers into the shins, because this can cause extreme discomfort for the person. Instead, for a touch-free massage, have them point their toes and flex their foot alternately underneath the water. This not only self-massages the inner muscles, but helps bring blood to the area. It also strengthens the anterior muscles while stretching the posterior muscles in tandem.
Massager Devices are Helpful when You Suffer from Shin Splint Pain
Another massage that is highly effective for shin splints pain is by way of a battery-operated or plug-in massager that provides vibration massage. With nerve endings extremely sensitive to pressure, giving a skin-to-skin massage simply is not recommended. Some massagers wrap around the leg via a neoprene sleeve while others are in the shape of a square and can be placed flat on the floor or on top of the shin. For tight posterior leg muscles, a roller-type massage machine one that is hand-held) can also be highly effective for massaging calf muscles.
You no longer have to let shin splints stop you from living. With the everyday use of orthotics and these massage therapies; shin splints can be painless and aid in healing.