SHIN SPLINTS
Aching, tender shins during or after exercise?
Shin splints (medial tibial stress syndrome) are a common exercise-related complaint affecting runners, walkers, and athletes. Our podiatrists can assess the contributing biomechanical factors
COMMON SYMPTOMS
Does any of this sound familiar?
Shin splints typically present along the lower inner border of the shin bone. Common indicators include:
- Aching pain along the inner edge of the lower leg
- Pain that appears at the start of exercise, may ease during, and returns after
- Tenderness when pressing along the lower shin bone
- Pain worsened by running on hard surfaces or down hills
- Mild lower leg swelling or tightness
- Pain that is gradually getting worse with each workout
Shin pain should be checked to rule out bone stress reactions.
A podiatry assessment helps identify the movement patterns contributing to shin strain.
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POSSIBLE CAUSES
What may be causing shin splints?
Shin splints occur when repetitive loading stresses the muscles, tendons and periosteum of the tibia. Factors can include:
Rapid training progression
Increasing running mileage, intensity, or introducing hill training too quickly.
Foot mechanics & overpronation
Excessive or rapid pronation increases traction forces on the deep lower-leg muscles.
Hard running surfaces
Training consistently on concrete or hard roads without adequate shock attenuation.
Footwear cushioning
Running in shoes that have lost their midsole cushioning or lack adequate stability.
WHEN TO SEEK ASSESSMENT
When should you consider getting shin splints checked?
Consider arranging an assessment if:
- Shin discomfort occurs even when walking or resting
- You have pinpoint, intense bone tenderness on the shin
- Symptoms have not settled after two weeks of rest
- You are training for an event and pain is disrupting your schedule
- You want a biomechanical assessment to address the root cause
YOUR APPOINTMENT
What happens when you come to see us?
We assess your lower leg, gait mechanics, and training load to guide effective recovery
We listen
We review your training volume, shoe age, and running surface history.
We assess
Your podiatrist checks shin palpation points, lower-leg muscle strength, and flexibility.
We analyse
Gait analysis may be performed to assess how your foot contacts the ground.
We plan
You receive a structured recovery plan and advice on gradual return to running.
TREATMENT OPTIONS
Treatment depends on what we find
Management aims to reduce tibial stress while restoring tissue tolerance. Options may include:
Not every treatment is appropriate for every patient. Your podiatrist will discuss suitable options after assessment.
- Training load & pacing modifications
- Gait & biomechanical assessment
- Prescription orthotics to control pronation
- Footwear recommendations for stability & cushioning
- Lower leg strengthening exercises
- Shockwave therapy where appropriate
We're here for you
Tired of Living With Pain? We Can Help
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OUR CLINICIANS
You'll be seen by our podiatry team
Our clinicians assess a wide range of foot, ankle and lower-limb problems and will explain your options clearly.
Matthew Francis
Clinical Director / Managing Podiatrist
Megan Kelly
General & High Risk Foot Podiatrist
Yaw Nimoh
MSK, Sports & Advanced Practice Podiatrist
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FAQ
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READY TO GET STARTED?
Ready to get your shin splints assessed?
Book online at a time that suits you, or request a callback if you're unsure which appointment is right for you.