Synopsis: 22

MEDIAL TIBIAL STRESS SYNDROME- RESTING OR LOADING

Dr. Sriraghunath.S

RV College of Physiotherapy,

Bangalore, Karnataka

Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (MTSS) is a chronic painful condition of the lower-limb that affects a large population of recreational and professional athletes. MTSS is an overuse injury that occurs through exercise or physical activity and is characterized by its symptoms of palpable pain and tenderness. This pain is commonly located along the posteromedial tibial border and it typically affects the distal two-thirds of the bone, although it can occur in any part along this border.

The pain is often described as a dull ache often followed by loaded exercises which can last several hours or sometimes even several days. The symptoms are present typically when exercising but in severe cases of MTSS it may linger on during the remaining part of the day as well.

Moreover, many health professionals believe that if left untreated, the MTSS may progress to the development of a tibial stress fractures which will be more difficult to manage. There seems to be a lack of clarity and understanding regarding what actually could be the causative factor and what are the different contributory factors leading to this syndrome. This lack of clarity is hindering the clinicians to come to a conclusion as to what could be the best way to manage MTSS and also to prevent it.

The purpose of this presentation is to identify such factors, explore prevention and treatment methods that seem to be relevant and promising at present. The risk factors of MTSS and possible preventive methods are discussed elaborately. Both traditional and latest trends in treatment options are explored in this presentation and also highlight the need for a shift in emphasis from treatment to prevention of MTSS and present practical ways to do so. The recovery timelines and the risk of recurrence is also touched upon in this presentation.