What are the treatment options for shin splints?

Shin splints, also known as medial tibial stress syndrome, cause pain along the inner border of the shin after repeated loading. A sudden increase in running, hills, jumping or hard surfaces can outpace the leg's ability to adapt. The pain may improve with rest but return when the same load is introduced too quickly.

Replace painful running or jumping with lower-impact movement while the shin settles, then increase duration and intensity in small stages. Check shoes and training surfaces. [Custom Orthotics](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/custom-orthotics/) may help when foot mechanics contribute to repeated stress. [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/) can build calf, foot and hip strength, while [Gait Retraining](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/gait-retraining/) may refine stride, cadence or landing habits. Do not run through worsening pain.

Book an assessment when pain is localised to one small spot, occurs at rest or at night, causes limping, follows an injury, or remains despite reducing impact. Urgent evaluation is appropriate for severe pain with major swelling, numbness, a cold foot or inability to bear weight.

Ask how much walking or exercise is suitable now, how to progress running, whether your shoes or foot mechanics need review, and which exercises should be pain-free. Ask whether a bone stress injury needs to be ruled out if symptoms are focal.