Shin Splints

Pain Along the Front of Your Lower Leg?

Shin splints are one of the most common causes of leg pain in runners, athletes, military recruits, dancers, and active individuals. The term "shin splints" refers to inflammation of the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue surrounding the tibia (shin bone), causing pain along the front or inside portion of the lower leg.

At Edge Podiatry, we help identify the underlying cause of shin splints and develop personalized treatment plans to get you back to your activities safely and as quickly as possible.

What Causes Shin Splints?

Shin splints typically occur when repetitive stress is placed on the muscles and tissues attached to the shin bone. They are often seen after a sudden increase in activity or a change in training routine.

Common causes include:

• Running, especially on hard surfaces such as concrete

• Hill running

• Sudden increases in training intensity

• Increasing mileage too quickly

• Basketball, soccer, tennis, and other high-impact sports

• Dance training

• Military training

• Flat feet or abnormal foot mechanics

• Improper footwear

• Poor shock absorption

Many patients develop shin splints when beginning a new exercise program or returning to activity after a period of inactivity.

Symptoms

Common symptoms include:

• Pain along the inner portion of the shin bone

• Tenderness along the lower leg

• Mild swelling

• Pain during or after exercise

• Aching that improves with rest

• Pain that worsens with continued activity

If pain becomes severe, persistent, or occurs even at rest, further evaluation is necessary to rule out a stress fracture or other injury.

Risk Factors

You may be at greater risk if you:

• Are a runner or endurance athlete

• Have flat feet or high arches

• Wear worn-out athletic shoes

• Recently increased training intensity

• Exercise on hard surfaces

• Have poor lower extremity biomechanics

Diagnosis

A comprehensive evaluation is important because shin splints can mimic other conditions, including:

• Stress fractures

• Tendonitis

• Compartment syndrome

• Muscle strains

• Nerve-related conditions

At Edge Podiatry, evaluation may include:

• Physical examination

• Gait analysis

• Biomechanical assessment

• X-rays

• Diagnostic ultrasound

• MRI when necessary

Treatment Options

Most cases of shin splints improve with conservative treatment.

Activity Modification

Reducing or temporarily stopping the activities causing pain allows inflammation to subside and healing to occur.

Ice Therapy

Applying ice after activity can help reduce inflammation and discomfort.

Proper Footwear

Worn-out or improperly fitted athletic shoes are a common contributor to shin splints.

Custom Orthotics

Abnormal foot mechanics frequently contribute to shin pain. Custom orthotics can improve alignment, reduce excessive stress on the lower leg, and help prevent recurrence.

At Edge Podiatry, we utilize advanced 3D scanning technology to create custom orthotics tailored to your unique foot structure and activity level.

Stretching and Physical Therapy

Improving flexibility and strengthening the muscles of the foot, ankle, and lower leg can significantly reduce symptoms and prevent future injuries.

Anti-Inflammatory Treatment

Medications may be recommended to help manage pain and inflammation.

Preventing Shin Splints

You can reduce your risk by:

• Gradually increasing activity levels

• Wearing supportive footwear

• Replacing athletic shoes regularly

• Stretching before and after exercise

• Using custom orthotics when appropriate

• Training on softer surfaces when possible

When Should You See a Foot and Ankle Specialist?

Schedule an evaluation if:

• Pain persists despite rest

• Symptoms continue to worsen

• You develop swelling or bruising

• Pain occurs during normal walking

• You suspect a stress fracture

Early treatment can help prevent more serious injuries and get you back to your activities faster.

Schedule an Appointment

If you are experiencing shin pain during sports, running, or daily activities, contact Edge Podiatry today. Our team specializes in diagnosing and treating shin splints, stress fractures, sports injuries, and biomechanical conditions to help you stay active and pain-free.