by Denise Müller, Grad. Sports Scientist
The term periostitis / inflammation of the outer layer of the bone refers to an inflamed alteration to the periosteum.
This can be caused by either sporting overload or bacterial infection. However in most cases there is chronic strain.
Most often affected are athletes who suddenly intensify their training sessions, without allowing time for corresponding adjustments to the training of stressed areas. Excessive strain due to lots of running or standing on surfaces that are too hard, combined with bad or unsuitable footwear, can also cause these irritations.
This causes a swelling of the periosteum, which increases the pressure and tension on the periosteum. The nerve structure in this area becomes irritated, and pain is felt.
In theory any bone can suffer from periostitis. For the most part, however, it occurs on bone surfaces where muscular tendons start. The most common locations for athletes are the tibia – or more precisely the inside of the shin.
The main symptoms are:
– Swelling
– Possible redness in the affected area
– Possible redness in the affected area
– Strong pressure pain
– Fatigue
– Fever
Treatment is generally symptomatic, and can be done medicinally or without drugs. Initially therapy can be carried out with cooling and a compression bandage. If this is not enough to alleviate the symptoms, then anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medication can be used.
In theory there should be a break in training, or triggering factors such as incorrect footwear should be remedied.
