What is shin splints?
Disease description:
I've been experiencing severe pain in my lower leg recently, especially after exercising. Upon examination, I was told it's tibial periostitis. I'd like to know what tibial periostitis is and what symptoms it presents.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Jian
Periostitis of the tibia is a condition characterized by inflammation of the periosteum, the membrane covering the surface of the tibial bone. The periosteum is a tough layer of connective tissue tightly wrapped around the outer layer of bone. It contains abundant nerves and blood vessels and plays an important role in bone growth, repair, and the perception of external stimuli. When the periosteum is injured, overused, or infected, it may trigger an inflammatory response, leading to symptoms such as pain, swelling, and increased local temperature.
Main symptoms include:
1. Pain: Typically localized on the outer side of the lower leg, which may be accompanied by a sharp sensation, especially exacerbated during activity.
2. Tenderness: Due to inflammatory irritation and damage to the periosteum, there will be obvious tender points locally, and touching may cause severe pain.
3. Swelling: May lead to edema of the soft tissues and accumulation of exudate, resulting in swelling of the lower leg, commonly occurring on the anterior aspect.
4. Limited joint function: May cause joint stiffness and muscle spasms, affecting the normal range of motion.
5. Fever: Periostitis caused by bacterial infection may also present with systemic symptoms such as fever.
Treatment for tibial periostitis typically includes rest, ice application, use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve pain and inflammation, and physical therapy to enhance muscle strength and flexibility.
