Tibialis Posterior Pain
In reference to the foot, the tibialis posterior is an extrinsic muscle, meaning it originates in the leg, crosses the ankle joint, and inserts in the foot. There are actually nine different points of attachment for the tibialis posterior in the foot, but the most important is the navicular bone, or the midfoot bone that comprises the high point of the arch. Pain from the tibialis posterior is typically described by runners as “shin splints” that occurs on the medial, or inside, portion of the lower leg.
With runners and walkers, the majority of medial shin complaints are the result of excessive pronation and the repetitive stress that results from inefficient foot mechanics. While there are other conditions that can affect the tibialis posterior, including posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, the large majority of such complaints are rather easily corrected with more supportive (stable) footwear and/or functional (arch supportive) inserts. In most cases, a simple foot-strike analysis and review of a runner’s foot mechanics in gait can help determine what level of stability is most appropriate to the individual runner. The majority of customers experience a reduction in symptoms a short time after getting into more appropriate shoes. Rest, ice, and compression (calf/shin sleeves) can also provide considerable relief.