Definition

Shin splints (medial tibial stress syndrome) is shin pain from overuse or repetitive stress.

Muscle and Bones of Lower Leg Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Causes

MTSS happens when muscles and tendons over the shin become irritated and inflamed. It is caused by a sudden increase in activity levels.

Risk Factors

This problem is more common in people who do repetitive, high-impact activities, such as:

• Running
• Basketball
• Dancing
• Gymnastics
• Military training

Other things that may raise the risk are:

• Increasing activity levels too quickly
• Flat feet or stiff arches
• Poor footwear

Symptoms

The main problem is sharp or dull pain along the shinbone. Other problems may be:

• Swelling
• Pain during and after activity
• Pain when touching the shin

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. It will focus on the shin. This is often enough to make the diagnosis.

Images of the shin may be taken to check for other problems. This can be done with:

• X-rays
• MRI scan
• Bone scan

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to manage symptoms and promote healing. Rest will be needed for several weeks. Other choices are:

• Supportive care, such as cold packs, bandages, and elevating the leg
• Medicines to ease pain and swelling
• Supportive shoes, a brace, or a walking boot to take pressure off the shin as it heals
• Physical therapy to help with strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the lower leg

People who do not get better with these methods may need surgery. This is not common.

Prevention

The risk of this problem may be lowered by:

• Slowly increasing physical activities
• Wearing proper footwear for sports and activities