Background and PurposeThe purpose of this review is to identify risk factors in the athletic population for the development of Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (MTSS). MTSS is a lower extremity pathology that frequently impacts athletes and disrupts their ability to participate. Identifying risk factors and other direct causes of this condition can provide insight regarding treatment techniques and methods of prevention.
MethodsAn extensive search of the literature was conducted. Databases used included PubMed, ProQuest Nursing, Cinahl and Allied Health, Proquest Health and Medicine, and Google Scholar. 11 articles were found meet inclusion and exclusion criteria. Critically Appraised Topic (CAT) analyses were completed for each include article. Quality assessment via Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale (PEDro) was also completed, average quality score being 6.
ResultsSignificant risk factors for MTSS development include high body mass index, female gender, navicular drop, foot pronation, limited hip internal rotation range of motion, increased plantarflexion range of motion, limited straight leg raise, cortical thickness of the tibia, bilateral ankle strength, impaired standing heel-rise test, decreased foot balance, increased miles run per week, less significant exercise history, higher pain level, and longer duration of symptoms.
DiscussionOverall it can be inferred that there is lack of agreement in the current literature regarding the cause of MTSS, the associated risk factors, and the best way to treat it. Based on the results provided by this systematic review, different healthcare providers may be able to better develop appropriate plans of care. Future studies may want to focus on risk factors consistently contributing to MTSS, larger sample sizes, analyzation based on type of impact sport, or running mechanics in relation to MTSS development.Citation : Singh R (2016) Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome: Who's at risk? A systematic Review. J Phys Med Rehabil Disabil 2: 014. • Page 2 of 11 •
