Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

Department

Kinesiology, Recreation, and Sport

Document Type

Thesis

Abstract

Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (MTSS, i.e. shin splints) is among one of the most frequently reported running-related musculoskeletal injuries. Minimal research has investigated the prevention of MTSS with limited evidence supporting few preventative measures. The purpose of this study is to gain a better understanding of which method of warming up could yield the most promising results for the prevention of MTSS in high school cross country athletes and to use this information to further educate coaches and athletes on the most efficacious protocols to implement in the future. METHODS: Participants were recruited via communication with high school cross country coaches and included male and female high school cross-country runners (14-18 years). Data was collected through an electronic Qualtrics Survey. Data was analyzed using Chi-square Goodness of Fit tests and Tests of Independence. RESULTS: Chi Square Tests of Independence revealed significant associations between the MTSS and: 1) strengthening exercises (p = 0.023); and 2) wearing proper running shoes (p = 0.007). For treatment methods, MTSS was significantly associated with icing (p = 0.020), using pain relief cream (p = 0.020), using a roller (p = 0.020), wearing proper running shoes (p = 0.0284), stretching (p = 0.004), and strengthening exercises (p = 0.004). Additionally, MTSS was also associated with Body Mass Index (p = 0.025). DISCUSSION: This information regarding prevention and treatment techniques can be used to better educate coaches on which athletes are more prone to developing MTSS and how a factor (e.g., wearing proper running shoes) can affect all their athletes. Additionally, coaches and parents may benefit from understanding the optimal body weight needs for their athlete as too low of a body weight was seen to be associated with increased occurrence of MTSS in the current study.

Advisor(s) or Committee Chair

Kayla Baker, Ph.D., CSCS

Disciplines

Exercise Physiology | Kinesiology | Sports Sciences

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