Shin splints, more precisely medial tibial stress syndrome, is pain along the inner border of the shin bone. It is one of the most reliable consequences of doing more than you are conditioned for, which is why it appears in people starting to run, returning after a break, adding mileage for an event, or switching to harder surfaces.
The pain typically starts towards the end of a run, then arrives earlier and earlier as it progresses, and eventually turns up during everyday walking. That progression is worth catching early. This condition often requires a double pronged approach, drawing on the skills of both our physiotherapists and our podiatrist. They can liaise with each other as to the best way forward for you.
More information
Is it a stress fracture
This is the important question, because the two feel similar and are managed differently. Pain spread over a broad area of the inner shin, several centimetres or more, and tender across that whole area, points to shin splints. Pain that is sharply focused on one small spot, tender to press on that exact point, worse with hopping, and continuing at rest or at night, is more suspicious of a stress fracture and needs a doctor and probably imaging.
We will assess for that specifically at the first appointment, and we will send you on rather than treat you if it is the second.
What treatment involves
Load management first, because the cause is almost always the training rather than the shin. Then calf and foot strength, since the muscles absorbing landing forces are usually not strong enough for the volume being asked of them. We also look at footwear, at surfaces, and at how you load the leg when you run, which is where a gait assessment helps.
How long
Most cases settle over four to twelve weeks with a sensible reduction in load and consistent strengthening. Ignoring it and pushing through is how shin splints becomes a stress fracture.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if it is shin splints or a stress fracture?
What causes shin splints?
How long do shin splints take to settle?
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