The periosteum is a membrane that allows the bones to be nourished.
Periosteum is a term used in the field of anatomy to name a membrane composed of fibers that nourishes the bone components of the body. The etymological origin of the word is found in the Latin word periosteum, which in turn derives from the Greek periosteon. This word is made up of two clearly delimited parts: the prefix peri- , which can be translated as “around” ; and the noun osteon , which is equivalent to “bone” .
The periosteum covers the external part of the bones, except in those spaces where tendons, ligaments or joints are inserted. The link with each bone is given through highly resistant collagen fibers .
The blood supply allows the periosteum to provide nutrients to the bone elements. The membrane is made up of two layers (one internal and one external): the internal one houses cells that, in the event of a fracture, are vital for bone recovery . It can be said, therefore, that the periosteum is necessary to feed the bone and to allow its development and recovery.
Disorders in the periosteum
It is possible that a person suffers from various inconveniences due to disorders in the periosteum. A swelling of the membrane that covers the tibia is known as tibial periostitis . This injury is common among athletes who run since the foot almost constantly impacts the ground, causing vibrations in the muscles and bones that lead to inflammation of the periosteum.
The most common symptom of shin splints is a stinging pain in the leg that makes normal movement difficult. To prevent periostitis, it is recommended to stretch the muscles before starting physical activity and use footwear that can absorb the impact of the foot against the floor. Once the disorder has been declared, a doctor must be in charge of suggesting a treatment, which usually includes the application of cold to the area and the use of anti-inflammatories .
It is possible to suffer from various disorders in the periosteum.
The case of athletes
Athletes in general are the people who suffer the most problems regarding the periosteum, especially those who perform a high-impact discipline that requires them to run or jump .
When they suffer problems related to that membrane, it is usually due to several causes, among which we would highlight the following:
- They have exercised too much. Therefore, to prevent it from occurring for this reason, it is recommended that you do not increase it by more than 10% per week, both in terms of duration, intensity or frequency.
- A calcium deficiency.
- Weakness of the bones, due to genetic or other causes.
- Poor body mechanics, due to their running style or hip muscle strength.
Whatever the cause of the periosteum problem, the person is required to go to their doctor to have different tests performed and to check the condition they are in as well as whether that is really the ailment they are suffering from. In this way, if yes, a treatment will be established that, as a general rule, will consist of a period of absolute rest.