The effects of six weeks of neuromuscular training on pain, proprioception, and balance in female runners with shin splints

Although participating in sports activities has positive effects on people, it can lead to various injuries in athletes. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the effect of neuromuscular exercises on pain, proprioception, and balance in female runners with shin splints.

In this semi-experimental study, 24 female runners with shin splints with an age range of 17 to 23 years were randomly divided into two control and experimental groups. In the pre-test, pain level, static and dynamic balance, and ankle proprioception were measured using a visual analog scale, stork balance test, Y balance test, and angle repositioning error test. Then, the subjects of the experimental group performed the exercises for 6 weeks. After completing the exercises, the post-test was performed similar to the pre-test.

The research results showed that after six weeks of neuromuscular exercises, there is a significant difference between the control and experimental groups in the post-test of pain, static and dynamic balance, and proprioception (P<0.05). Also, the results of the correlated t-test showed that there is a significant difference between the pre-test and post-test of pain, static and dynamic balance and proprioception after six weeks of neuromuscular exercises (P<0.05).

According to the results obtained from the research, it is possible to suggest the use of neuromuscular exercises to reduce pain and improve balance and proprioception in female runners with shin splints.