Shin splints are a common cause of lower leg pain, especially in people who increase physical activity too quickly. While shin splints can be frustrating, understanding why shin splints develop, how shin splints feel, and how to reduce pain can help you recover faster and prevent future injuries.
If you’re experiencing persistent shin pain, our experienced team at Precision Orthopaedic Specialties can help. With convenient locations in Chardon, Chagrin Falls, and Middlefield, OH, expert care is close to home. Contact us today to schedule an evaluation.
Shin splint is the term used to describe pain along the inner edge of the shin bone (tibia) in the lower leg. The medical term for the condition is medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS).
Shin splints are an exercise-related overuse injury that causes stress on the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue. They are common in military recruits or athletes who are starting out or increasing their training activity. The symptoms usually improve with rest.
Common Symptoms of shin splints include the following:
The pain associated with shin splints may be felt more during or just after exercise. In the early stages, the pain may subside with rest. However, if you continue to push through the pain, recovery may become more delayed.
The primary cause of shin splints is repetitive stress on the shinbone and the connective tissues that attach the muscle to the bone. They often occur with sudden changes of activity, such as increasing frequency, duration, or intensity within your exercise routine.
Other risk factors for developing shin splints include the following:
Your doctor will diagnose shin splints by considering your medical history and through a physical exam. Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI scans, and bone scans may be done to rule out other injuries. Stress fractures, tendinitis, and chronic exertional compartment syndrome all have similar symptoms.
If you need shin splints diagnosed, seeking care from a specialist in sports medicine can ensure you get the right treatment.
The first line of treatment for shin splints is rest. The following treatment can also help during your recovery.
At Precision Orthopaedic Specialties, our team provides expert care to help you recover from shin splints and get back to your exercise routine safely.
To prevent shin splints from happening or returning, you could try the following:
Shin splints are often caused by repeated stress and overuse, but early treatment can help reduce pain and prevent the condition from worsening. Rest, proper footwear, shoe inserts, and gradual return to physical activity can make a significant difference. However, if your lower leg pain persists despite rest, or if shin splint pain worsens, it may be time to seek professional care.
Our specialists at Precision Orthopaedic Specialties are here to help you recover safely and return to your routine. Our experienced orthopaedic surgeons provide expert diagnosis and treatment at our convenient locations in Chardon, Chagrin Falls, and Middlefield, OH. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and get relief from shin pain.
Medically reviewed by Jamie DelVecchio, D.O.
Shin splints typically feel like a dull ache or tenderness along the front or inside of the lower leg. The pain often occurs during physical activity and may improve with rest, especially in the early stages.
Shin splints develop due to repeated stress on the shinbone and surrounding muscles. This is typically caused by increases in physical activity that occur too quickly, running on hard or uneven surfaces, or wearing worn-out or unsupportive shoes.
Most cases improve within a few weeks with rest and conservative treatment. However, recovery time varies depending on the severity and whether you reduce activity and follow prevention strategies.
Low-impact activities such as swimming or cycling are usually safe while you recover. Avoid high-impact exercises like running until the shin splint pain improves.
You should seek medical care if your lower leg pain does not improve with rest, becomes severe, or interferes with daily activities. An orthopaedic specialist can evaluate your symptoms and recommend treatment to reduce pain and prevent further injury.
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