Low shin splints

Shin splints, also called medial tibial stress syndrome, often appear after increasing running, jumping, walking or training too quickly. Pain may spread along the inner border of the shin and feel tender during or after activity. Flat feet, worn footwear, hard surfaces and changes in running technique can increase stress through the lower leg. A clinician should distinguish this pattern from a stress fracture, tendon problem or a nerve-related cause, especially when pain is focused in one small area.

Reduce or pause the activity that provokes pain, then use low-impact exercise only if it remains comfortable. Ice wrapped in cloth may ease symptoms for a short period. Resume impact gradually when everyday walking is comfortable, increasing one training change at a time. Check footwear and training surfaces, and avoid returning to the same workload immediately. Physiotherapy can assess calf strength, ankle movement and running mechanics; gait retraining or custom orthotics may be considered when foot position contributes.

Arrange assessment if pain is severe, one-sided and pinpointed, present at rest or at night, or accompanied by marked swelling, numbness or weakness. Seek prompt care after a fall or direct blow, or if you cannot bear weight. Persistent shin pain despite reducing activity should be checked before you return to impact exercise.

Ask whether your symptoms fit shin splints or need imaging, which activities are safe now, and how to progress training. Ask whether foot posture, footwear, calf tightness or running form needs targeted treatment.