Tibial Periostitis

Tibial periostitis is an inflammation of the membrane that covers the tibial bone (the periosteum). This pain is mainly caused by excessive stimulation and use of the tibia.

This very painful inflammation is common among runners. In some cases, it can force athletes to stop training for a while.

With the growing popularity of running, we are seeing more and more patients with tibial periostitis at the Laboratoire Orthopédique.

Our expertise in this area allows us to offer each patient a solution adapted to their needs.

Peut-on se baigner avec une orthèse?

Tibial periostitis symptoms

Tibial periostitis is characterized by the appearance of severe pain in the tibia. Specifically, the symptoms and warning signs are as follows:

Severe pain in the front, inside, outside, or even back of the lower leg
Pain in the shin when walking, running or making any other plantar flexion movement, which subsides at rest
Shin pain at night
Leg pain on palpation
Swelling in the painful area

Tibial periostitis should not be confused with a tibial fracture. It is often diagnosed by X-ray or clinical examination. Tibial periostitis sometimes reveals several nodules during palpation and may prevent the use of the forefoot and toes during propulsion when walking or running.

Les déformations du pied présentées par notre Laboratoire Orthopédique

Causes of tibial periostitis and who is at risk

Tibial periostitis is often triggered by intense physical activity, especially when there is a lack of preparation.

Most people affected are athletes, especially runners and sprinters, but also soccer players and skiers.

Other causes of this shin pain may include:

Direct trauma to the bone or previous trauma, such as a sprained ankle
Wearing shoes that are too small or unsuitable
Running on a downhill slope or over hard terrain
Other morphological factors, such as being overweight or having a different length of the lower limb

Do you feel any pain ?

If you have hallux valgus, please make an appointment at Laboratoire orthopédique. Our team of enthusiasts will be happy to help you.

Tibial periostitis treatment

It is important to treat tibia periostitis in time to avoid complications.

After a consultation during which your gait and footwear will be analyzed, you will be advised to rest for several days, or even weeks, and to wear orthotics. The application of a TENS and the wearing of orthopedic shoes would also be beneficial to the relief of tibial pain.

At the Laboratoire Orthopédique we handcraft custom molded foot orthotics for people with tibial periostitis. The orthotics provide the necessary support to the arch of the foot to relieve the periosteum. We also provide exercises to relieve pain, strengthen muscles and increase range of motion.

Do you feel any pain ?

If you have hallux valgus, please make an appointment at Laboratoire orthopédique. Our team of enthusiasts will be happy to help you.