Shin Splints Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options
Shin splints, also called medial tibial stress syndrome, cause pain and inflammation along the inside of the lower leg. This occurs when the muscles and tissues around the tibia become irritated from overuse, especially during repetitive or high-impact activities such as running or jumping. Most cases improve with rest, ice, supportive footwear, and gentle exercises that stretch and strengthen the lower leg.
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Shin splints occur when the tissues surrounding the tibia (shinbone) become inflamed from repeated stress. The tibia and fibula are the two bones of the lower leg, and together they are commonly referred to as the shin. When activities like running, jumping, or quick directional changes are repeated without enough rest, the muscles and connective tissues become irritated, leading to shin pain. This condition is especially common in athletes, dancers, and people who have recently increased their training intensity.
What causes Shin Splints?
Shin splints are primarily an overuse injury. When too much force is placed on the muscles and tissues around the tibia, inflammation develops. This often happens when a person suddenly increases the duration, intensity, or frequency of their activity. Sports that involve quick starting and stopping, such as racket sports, running, and soccer, put added strain on the lower leg.
How the Injury Occurs
- Sudden increase in training or running distance
- Hard or uneven surfaces that increase impact
- Tight calf muscles pulling on the shin
- Improper footwear lacking support
- Repetitive jumping or sprinting
Common Everyday Causes
- Walking long distances in unsupportive shoes
- Starting a new fitness routine too quickly
- Standing for long hours on hard floors
- Poor running form or overstriding
Sports Where Shin Splints Are Most Common
These activities place repeated stress on the lower leg:
- Tennis – Quick lateral movements strain the shin muscles.
- Racquetball – Fast stops and starts increase impact.
- Dancing – Jumping and landing repeatedly can irritate the tibia.
- Running – High mileage or sudden speed changes are common triggers.
- Soccer – Sprinting, cutting, and kicking stress the lower leg.
- Basketball – Frequent jumping and direction changes contribute to shin pain.
Symptoms
The main symptom of shin splints is pain along the inner part of the shin. This pain may feel sharp, dull, or throbbing, depending on the activity level.
Common shin splint symptoms include:
- Diffuse pain along the shin rather than a single pinpoint area
- Pain that becomes worse during activity or exercise
- Pain that begins earlier and with less activity as the condition develops
- Pain that lingers after activity but improves with rest
- Tenderness along the tibia
When to see a doctor
Because shin splint symptoms can be similar to stress fractures or other leg injuries, it’s important to see a doctor if:
- The pain is sharp, localized, or persistent
- You notice swelling or tenderness in one specific spot
- Walking or weight-bearing becomes difficult
Your doctor will review your medical history, examine your leg, and may order X-rays or other imaging tests to rule out a stress fracture or other conditions.
Non-operative treatment
Most cases of shin splints can be treated safely at home. Athletes should temporarily avoid activities that cause pain and switch to low-impact options, such as swimming or cycling, to stay active.
Common non-surgical treatment options include:
- Ice for 15 minutes, two to three times daily
- Calf stretches to reduce tension on the shin
- NSAIDs (ibuprofen or naproxen) for pain relief
- Orthotic shoes or inserts to support the arch and improve alignment
- Physical therapy to improve strength, flexibility, and running form
A doctor or therapist may also recommend specific exercises to rebuild strength and lower the risk of the injury returning.
Surgical Treatment
Surgery is never needed for shin splints. Most people recover with rest, proper footwear, activity changes, and physical therapy. When pain continues for many months despite treatment, further evaluation may be required to rule out other conditions such as compartment syndrome or a stress fracture.
Recovery
Most people recover from shin splints within four to six weeks. The timeline depends on how early treatment begins and how closely activity guidelines are followed. Athletes should be free of pain before returning to higher-intensity sports. A gradual return works best. Begin slowly, increase intensity over time, and watch for any symptoms that come back.
Proper stretching, supportive footwear, warming up before exercise, and correcting training form all help reduce the chance of the injury returning. A doctor or physical therapist can guide you through a safe plan for resuming activity.
Dr. Jay Kimmel is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine, arthroscopic surgery, and shoulder and knee disorders. He completed his orthopedic training at New York-Presbyterian/Columbia University Medical Center and a Sports Medicine Fellowship at Temple University.
Dr. Kimmel previously served as the Director of the Connecticut Sports Medicine Institute at Saint Francis Hospital and has held faculty appointments as Clinical Assistant Professor in the Departments of Orthopedics and Family Medicine at the University of Connecticut. He has extensive experience caring for athletes as a team physician for high school and collegiate programs and continues to teach in the athletic training departments at Westfield State University and Springfield College.
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/MonthFrequently Asked Questions
Where is shin splint pain located?
The pain is usually felt along the inner edge of the tibia on the front or inside of the lower leg. It often covers a wider area rather than one specific point.
What comes after shin splints?
With steady care and appropriate exercises, most people return to normal activity. If symptoms continue, a doctor may evaluate you for a possible stress fracture or another condition.
Do shin splints improve?
Yes. They usually improve with rest, ice, stretching, and supportive shoes. Most people recover fully within a few weeks.
Is it bad to ignore shin splints?
Yes. Ignoring the pain can lead to worsening symptoms or a stress fracture. Early attention helps prevent long-term problems and supports faster healing.