Shin splints are commonly caused by muscle imbalances, pronation, insufficient shock absorption (worn out shoes) and toe running.

Anterior shin splints are often caused by a muscle called the Tibialis Anterior. Fibers from the Tibialis Anterior tear away from the periosteal (outer surface of the bone) attachment surface. As these fibers heal, they often become fibrotic, making it difficult for this muscle to lengthen normally. This makes the probability of future shin splints more likely.

The same holds true for posterior shins splints where the tibialis posterior is often involved. With ART treatments, adhesions are broken down and released, allowing the muscle to lengthen, thereby reducing the probability of future injuries.

Icing, reducing mileage, avoiding hills, correcting gait imbalances such as pronation, and stretching are also essential components to correcting this problem.

Dr. Abelson treating patients at the 2003 Ironman in Penticton.
Dr. Abelson first raced the 1982 Ironman event in Kona Hawaii. Dr. Abelson has also entered for the 2004 Canadian Ironman. 

Treating Shin Splints with ART

At our clinic we have used ART to effectively treat Shin Splints.

During the biomechanical analysis and in the subsequent treatment, the practitioner:

§         Evaluates your gait, motion, and posture.

§         Identifies the biomechanical dysfunctions that are restricting your performance.

§         Finds the soft-tissue structures that are the primary cause of the biomechanical dysfunction as well as any other affected structures along the kinetic chain.

§         Treats each soft-tissue dysfunction with ART to restore full function to the affected structures.

Dr. Brian Abelson is the Clinical Director of Edgemont Chiropractic Soft-tissue Management Systems, in Calgary, Alberta. 

Dr. Abelson is a native Calgarian who attended the University of Calgary, majoring in Biosciences, before graduating from Palmer College of Chiropractic West, California with an award for Clinical Excellence. He holds advanced certification in all levels of Active Release Techniques, is trained in Biomechanics and ART, is an accomplished ART Instructor, and is licensed to the ART Elite Providers Network.

He is co-author of "Release Your Pain" the first book for the public about Active Release Techniques. He is also the co-author of the award-winning information websites: www.drabelson.com and www.activerelease.ca.