Shin splints, also known as medial tibial stress syndrome, are a common injury that affects the lower legs, particularly the front part of the shin bone (tibia). They occur due to inflammation and micro-tears in the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue around the tibia. Shin splints are often caused by repetitive stress on the shinbone and the surrounding muscles, usually from activities that involve a lot of running, jumping, or sudden changes in direction.
Symptoms of shin splints include:
Pain and tenderness along the inner side of the shin bone.
Swelling in the lower leg.
Discomfort that worsens with exercise and can persist afterward.
Risk factors include inadequate footwear, sudden increases in training intensity, running on hard surfaces, or having flat feet or improper running mechanics.
Treatment typically involves rest, ice, stretching, and strengthening exercises, along with proper footwear and gradually increasing activity levels. If left untreated, shin splints can progress to more severe conditions like stress fractures, so early intervention is key.