Definition

Shin splints are a painful condition that is felt either on the bone that is located in the front of the lower leg (tibia or shin bone)or in the muscles on either side of the bone. This condition happens when physical activity leads to inflammation of the muscles, tendons, and the thin layer of tissue that covers the shin bone. It may result from participating in sports or other intense exercises.

Causes

This condition may be caused by:

  • Muscle overuse
  • Repetitive activities
  • Flat feet or rigid arches.
  • Aggravating factors include:
  • Having a sudden increase in exercise time
  • Starting a new, intense activity
  • Running up hills or long distances
  • Playing sports that involve sudden starts and stops
  • Not warming up before the activity
  • Wearing old or worn-out shoes
  • Signs or symptoms
  • The main symptom of this condition is pain that occurs:
  • On the front of the lower leg
  • In the muscles on either side of the shin bone
  • While exercising or at rest

Diagnosis

This condition may be diagnosed based on

A physical exam

X-rays or other imaging tests. These may be done to rule out other problems.

Treatment

Treatment for this condition depends on your age, history, overall health, and how bad the pain is. Most cases can be managed by doing one or more of the following:

  • Resting
  • Reducing the length and intensity of your exercise
  • Stopping or reducing the activity that causes shin pain
  • Taking medicines to control the inflammation
  • Icing, massaging, stretching, and strengthening the affected area
  • Wearing shoes that have rigid heels, shock absorption, and good arch support.
  • For severe shin pain, use crutches to avoid putting weight on your legs.

Precautions

  • Rest as needed.
  • Return to activity gradually as told by your doctor
  • When you start exercising again, begin with non–weight-bearing exercises, such as cycling or swimming
  • Stop running if the pain returns
  • Warm up properly before exercising
  • Run on a surface that is level and fairly firm
  • Gradually change the intensity of an exercise
  • If you increase your running distance, add only 5–10% to your distance each week. This means that if you are running 5 miles this week, you should only increase your run by ¼–½ mile for next week.

General instructions

Wear shoes that have rigid heels, shock absorption, and a good arch support

Change your athletic shoes every 6 months, or every 350–450 miles.

Summary

Shin splints happen when physical activities lead to inflammation of the muscles, tendons, and the thin layer of tissue that covers the shin bone. Treatments may include medicines, rest, and icing. Return to activity gradually as told by your doctor.