A randomized controlled trial of a leg orthosis versus traditional treatment for soldiers with shin splints: a pilot study.
Diagnosis and management strategies for shin splints in active duty military populations closely resemble those in civilian athletic populations. There is a paucity of evidence supporting the use of many of these interventions. The purpose of this study was to present data on the Shin Saver orthosis as a treatment for shin splints in an active duty military population and to review current condition management. Twenty-five subjects diagnosed with shin splints by a U.S. Army physical therapist were randomly assigned to a shin orthosis treatment group or a control group. There was no significant difference between treatment and control groups in days to finish a 0.5-mile run pain free. Visual analog scales for pain at intake versus after 1 week of relative rest revealed no significant improvement in symptoms in either group. Current best-practice guidelines support a treatment program of rest, cryotherapy, and a graduated walk-to-run program.
Johnston
Ember
E
Physical Therapy Department, Womack Army Medical Center, Fort Bragg, NC 28310, USA.
Flynn
Timothy
T
Bean
Michael
M
Breton
Matthew
M
Scherer
Matthew
M
Dreitzler
Gail
G
Thomas
Dennis
D
D000328:Adult; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008889:Military Personnel; D009989:Orthotic Devices; D010865:Pilot Projects; D013977:Tibia / Q000293:injuries*; D016896:Treatment Outcome