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    Mil Med. 2006 Jan;171(1):40-4.

    A randomized controlled trial of a leg orthosis versus traditional treatment for soldiers with shin splints: a pilot study.

    Johnston E, Flynn T, Bean M, Breton M, Scherer M, Dreitzler G, Thomas D.

    Physical Therapy Department, Womack Army Medical Center, Fort Bragg, NC 28310, USA.

    Comment in:

    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.

    PMID: 16532872 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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