Shin Splints and Sports: What to Know

Shin splints, or medial tibial stress syndrome, can cause aching or tenderness along the inner shin after repeated running and jumping. The issue may follow a new sport, a harder training block, more practice on a firm surface, or a return after time away. Poor recovery between demanding sessions can add to the total load. Foot and leg alignment may influence how impact is shared; [Flat Feet](/conditions/flat-feet/) can be discussed during an assessment, but shin pain does not by itself identify its cause.

Reduce the movements that provoke symptoms, such as jumping, hard running, or repeated changes of direction. Keep comfortable conditioning only if pain does not rise during the session or later that day. Check shoes for adequate support and avoid making several training changes at once. Reintroduce sport through easy drills, then add pace, impact, and competitive demands in stages. [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/) can help match strengthening and mobility work to your sport. [Gait Retraining](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/gait-retraining/) may be useful when running mechanics are part of the pattern.

Seek prompt assessment for pain at rest, night pain, swelling, numbness, weakness, inability to bear weight, or tenderness in one precise bony area. Stop sport if you are limping or changing your technique to protect the leg. Repeated [Shin Pain](/symptoms/shin-pain/) despite sensible load reduction also warrants review.

Ask which part of your training is most likely increasing load, how to progress back to impact, and whether your shoes or foot mechanics need attention. Ask whether [Custom Orthotics](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/custom-orthotics/) have a role for your examination findings.