Effect of exercise program on postural measures in athletes with shin splints

ABSTRACT Background: Medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS), commonly known as shin splints, is a prevalent overuse injury among athletes, particularly runners. This study investigates the biomechanical effects of a structured exercise program on athletes with MTSS, focusing on lower extremity measurements such as Quadriceps angle (Q-angle), navicular drop test (NDT), Achilles angle, intercondylar distance (ICD), and intermalleolar distance (IMD). Methodology: Thirty-five athletes aged 18–30 years with a history of shin pain were subjected to a supervised exercise regimen involving strengthening and stretching protocols. Lower extremity measurements were recorded pre and post-intervention, and differences between biomechanical variables were analyzed. Results: Results indicate significant improvements in Achilles angle and IMD within the experimental group, and notable intergroup differences in Q-angle, NDT, and ICD, suggesting the intervention’s efficacy in enhancing lower limb alignment. Conclusion: The present study demonstrates that stretching and strengthening can significantly improve lower limb postural alignment in athletes with shin splints.