Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome)

What are Shin Splints?

Shin splints refer to pain along the inner edge of the shinbone from inflammation of the muscles and connective tissue. They’re common in runners, jumpers, and athletes who increase training too quickly.

Common Symptoms

• Dull, aching pain along the inner shin

• Pain that worsens with running or jumping

• Tenderness along the shinbone

• Stiffness at the start of exercise, easing as you warm up

Physical Therapist Diagnosis

A PT examines tenderness along the shinbone, evaluates running mechanics, and rules out stress fractures.

Why it Happens

Shin splints develop from repetitive impact, poor footwear, weak hip/core muscles, or training errors like sudden mileage increases.

Why it Doesn’t Always Heal on Its Own

Rest provides temporary relief, but without addressing biomechanics and training load, symptoms return once activity resumes.

Ideal Physical Therapy Treatment

Rehab reduces pain and restores running mechanics. Dry needling is often effective for tight calf muscles contributing to shin pain.

Key strategies include:

• Manual therapy and stretching for calf and ankle mobility

• Dry needling for calf muscle tightness

• Strengthening of hips, core, and lower leg muscles

• Running gait retraining to reduce impact forces

• Gradual return-to-run program

Expected Outcomes

Most athletes recover within weeks with proper rehab. Returning too soon without addressing mechanics can lead to recurrence or stress fractures.