Summary

Shin splints describe the pain along the inner edge of the shin bone. Medically, it is called medial tibial stress syndrome. The condition is common among runners, affecting 13.6% to 20%. Because running is part of the HYROX competition, those training for it may also suffer.

Shin splints usually develop gradually and are associated with training load, movement patterns, and tissue overload rather than a single injury. With appropriate management, most people recover well and return to activity. The White House Clinic provides expert treatment for shin splints in Sheffield, Chesterfield and across all 14 locations.

An overview of shin splints

Shin splints describe pain that develops along the tibia, the long bone at the front of the lower leg. The condition occurs when repeated stress is placed on the muscles, tendons and bone tissue of the lower leg.

Medial tibial stress syndrome is caused by overuse and is commonly associated with sudden increases in training intensity, frequency or volume. Runners or walkers who increase their load or pace too soon, or have the wrong shoes for their activity, can experience shin splints.

Shin splints symptoms

Symptoms usually affect both legs but can occur on one side only. Symptoms of shin splints can vary, but commonly include:

• Aching or sharp pain along the inner edge of the shin
• Tenderness over a specific area of the lower leg
• Pain that worsens during or after activity
• Stiffness or discomfort at the start of exercise that may ease as activity continues
• Pain that returns or increases after training

Causes of shin splints

Contributing factors to shin splints include rapid increases in running distance or speed, high-impact training, poor shock absorption due to flat feet or unsupportive shoes, and reduced lower-limb strength or control.

When to see someone for shin splints

You should consider seeking professional advice if lower-leg pain from running or training persists, worsens, or begins to affect your ability to train or walk comfortably. Address symptoms early to reduce the risk of more serious bone stress injuries developing.

At the White House Clinic, you don’t need a referral to book a physiotherapy appointment for your runner’s shin pain. This gives you faster access to expert care and a speedier return to sport.

What to do if you have shin splints

Reduce aggravating activities while remaining active with shin splints. In the early stages of recovery, choose low-impact activity. Gradually return to running and higher-impact exercise once symptoms improve. A physiotherapist can advise on activity modification and progression.

Treatment for shin splints

From physiotherapy to Shockwave Therapy, the White House Clinic helps you get back to your sport of choice sooner.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy helps manage symptoms and prevent recurrence of shin splints. A physiotherapist will assess lower-limb strength and movement patterns and discuss your training load before developing a personalised rehabilitation plan.

Sports injury management

Sports injury management supports a safe and progressive return to activity. This includes guidance for runners and individuals involved in high-intensity gym training or HYROX, to help manage training volume and intensity.

Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave Therapy uses sound waves to manage persistent shin pain and stimulate healing in the affected tissues. This is used as part of a wider physiotherapy programme.

BFR training

Your physiotherapist may use Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) to maintain or improve lower limb strength when higher-load exercises are not yet suitable. This allows effective strengthening while reducing stress on the shins.

Who is affected by shin splints?

Shin splints commonly affect runners, people new to high-intensity training and those who increase activity levels before they’re ready. They can happen at any age and are common in individuals training for endurance or functional fitness events.

Reducing the risk of shin splints returning

Shin splints halt your activity and training. To reduce the risk of recurrence, gradually increase training volume and intensity using a progressive programme. Enhance strength in the calves, ankles and hips, and ensure you take rest days.

With appropriate treatment and rehabilitation, most people recover fully from shin splints and return to their chosen activities without ongoing pain.

References

• Physiopedia
• NCBI
• NHS