Shin splints in older adults

Shin splints can follow longer walks, new footwear, stair use or a return to exercise after a quiet period. With age, balance, joint movement, muscle strength and recovery needs may change, so a familiar activity can place a different load on the lower leg. [Flat Feet](/conditions/flat-feet/) may also affect foot and shin mechanics. Because pain can have more than one cause, review the pattern in [Shin Pain](/symptoms/shin-pain/).

Reduce the activity that provokes pain and choose comfortable, lower-impact movement if safe for you. Use supportive shoes, take regular rest breaks and increase walking or exercise in small stages. Do not exercise through pain that changes your stride. A physiotherapist can adapt balance, calf and leg-strength exercises to your abilities through [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/). They can also assess walking technique with [Gait Retraining](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/gait-retraining/) and discuss [Custom Orthotics](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/custom-orthotics/) when appropriate.

Arrange care for new pain that lasts, recurs, causes limping or interferes with sleep. Seek prompt assessment for a fall or other injury, pain in one exact spot, swelling, bruising, weakness, numbness, fever or inability to bear weight. A clinician may also review medicines and bone health when deciding whether further tests are needed.

Ask which activities are suitable, how quickly to progress, and whether your shoes, balance or walking pattern need review. Mention falls, recent activity changes, medicines and any history of bone problems so the assessment considers the full context.