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SHIN SPLINTS

The term “shin splints” describes pain and tenderness along or just behind the inner edge of the shinbone (tibia). It is also known as medial tibial stress syndrome. It is an inflammation of the muscles, tendons and bone tissue around the tibia. Shin splints usually develop after physical activity, such as vigorous exercise or sports. Repetitive activity leads to inflammation of the muscles, tendons and periosteum (thin layer of tissue covering a bone) of the tibia, causing pain especially where muscles attach to the bone. Shin splint pain concentrates in the lower leg between the knee and ankle.

Shin Splints Symptoms

Patients with shin splints will experience some of the following symptoms:

  • Muscle pain
  • A dull ache in the front part of the lower leg
  • Pain on either side of the shin bone
  • Pain that develops during exercise
  • Pain along the inner part of the lower leg
  • Numbness and weakness in the feet
  • Swelling in the lower leg (usually mild, if present)
  • Tenderness or soreness along the inner part of the lower leg

Shin splint pain may:

  • Be sharp and razor-like or dull and throbbing
  • Occur both during and after exercise
  • Be aggravated by touching the sore spot