Tony J asked:
I know that soccer shin guards can help prevent shin splints, but what other injuries can these shin guards prevent? Also, is there any other uses for soccer shin guards besides protection?
I might be mistaken. Shin guards might not be able to prevent shin splints.
Can they protect shin splints? I thought that was a stretching issue.
I always thought it was basic anti-bruise protection.
Shin guards are mainly used to protect the lower leg against contact injuries. The anterior tibial border is very exposed as it only has a layer of skin over it. Repetitive blows such as would occur in someone not wear shin guards can cause damage to the bone. Shin guards are also important for protecting the soft tissue of the lower leg. The lower leg is the most common site for compartment syndrome. The fascia covering the muscles is inelastic, so when a muscle swells a lot it is being contained by the fascia and this can actually cause significant damage. Repetitive blows to the leg can cause the fascia to scar down, become even tighter, and greatly increase a person’s chance for developing compartment syndrome.
Shin guards also give the player a smooth surface to play the ball off of.
In terms of shin spints, the shin guard itself will not prevent them. But if your particular guard relies on compression sleeves to hold them the compression sleeves can help with shin splints.