Shin splints Health Article

Definition

Shin splints are pains in the front of the lower legs caused by exercise. They usually appear after a period of relative inactivity.

Alternative Names

Lower leg pain; Pain - shins; Anterior tibia pain

Considerations

Shin splints can be caused by any of four types of problems, which are only occasionally serious. Most shin splints can be treated with rest.

Common Causes

Tibial shin splints are very common and affect both recreational and trained athletes. Runners are often affected. There are two types, tibial periostitis and posterior tibial shin splints. In tibial periostitis the bone itself is tender.

Anterior compartment syndrome affects the outer side of the front of the leg.

Stress fractures usually produce localized, sharp pain with tenderness 1 or 2 inches below the knee. A stress fracture is likely to occur 2 or 3 weeks into a new training program or after beginning a harder training program.

Home Care

For posterior tibial and tibial periostitis shin splints, the healing process usually takes a week of rest with ice treatment for 20 minutes twice a day. Over-the-counter pain medications will also help. Do not resume running for another 2-4 weeks.

For anterior compartment syndrome, pain will usually subside as the muscles gradually accustom themselves to the intense exercise. Complete rest is probably not necessary.

For a stress fracture, a rest period of at least 1 month is required. Complete healing requires 4-6 weeks. Crutches can be used but typically are not necessary.

Call your health care provider if

Although shin splints are seldom serious, you may need to call your health care provider:

• If the pain is prolonged and persistent, even with rest
• If you are not sure your pain is caused by shin splints
• If there is no progress with home treatment after several weeks