Breaking the Shin: Understanding Tibial Shaft Fractures

Breaking the Shin: Understanding Tibial Shaft Fractures explores one of the most common serious injuries to the lower leg—the fracture of the tibial shaft, or shinbone. In this episode, we explain how these fractures happen, from high-energy injuries like car crashes and sports trauma to lower-energy falls, especially in older adults. We walk through how tibial shaft fractures are diagnosed, the different types of breaks, and why some fractures can be treated with casting while others require surgery, such as intramedullary nailing.

The episode also covers what recovery really looks like, including healing timelines, rehabilitation, and potential complications, as well as the long-term outlook for patients. All information discussed is based on educational content from the free, peer-reviewed, non-profit OrthoEducation website at OrthoEducation.com, ensuring accurate, patient-focused guidance you can trust.

Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or simply curious, this episode breaks down a complex injury in a clear, practical way.