What to expect from physiotherapy for shin splints

Your therapist may ask when pain starts, check walking and running mechanics, and examine ankle movement, calf flexibility, hip control and foot strength. They may look at recent changes in training, footwear, surfaces or recovery time. Treatment can include calf and foot exercises, hip strengthening, balance drills and advice on distributing exercise load. The aim is to make the leg better able to handle impact without repeatedly provoking the painful area.

Temporarily reduce the activity that reliably brings on pain, while keeping comfortable movement if your clinician agrees. Complete the prescribed exercises consistently and increase walking, running or jumping in small steps. Record how the shin feels during activity and later that day; this helps identify whether the current load is suitable. Physiotherapy care may include education, exercise and movement retraining; see [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/) for a broader overview.

Arrange medical review if pain is pinpointed to one small area, occurs at rest or at night, follows a blow, or keeps worsening despite reduced activity. Urgent assessment is appropriate for marked swelling, inability to bear weight, numbness, a cold or pale foot, or severe pain that appears suddenly. These features can need a different evaluation from routine overuse care.

Ask which activities are safe now, what level of discomfort is acceptable during exercise, how to progress impact, and whether your footwear or training schedule needs changing. Ask when pain should be reassessed if it does not settle.