What are the symptoms of shin splints?
Common symptoms of shin splints include:
- Pain along the inner edge of the shin bone
- Soreness or tenderness in the lower leg
- Swelling in the area
- Pain during exercise that eases with rest
What causes shin splints?
Several factors can lead to shin splints, including:
- Increased physical activity, especially high-impact exercises like running
- Flat feet or high arches, which can affect the way weight is distributed while walking or running
- Wearing improper or worn-out footwear
- Running on hard surfaces
How common are shin splints?
Shin splints are quite common, especially among runners, dancers, and military recruits. They often occur when someone suddenly increases their level of activity or changes their exercise routine.
Who is more likely to get shin splints?
People who may be more likely to develop shin splints include:
- Athletes, especially runners and dancers
- Those who engage in high-impact sports
- Beginners who increase their activity levels too quickly
- People with certain foot types, such as flat feet or high arches
How can I treat shin splints?
Treating shin splints usually involves:
- Resting the affected leg
- Applying ice to reduce swelling
- Taking over-the-counter pain relief, such as ibuprofen
- Gradually returning to physical activity
- Wearing supportive shoes or insoles
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How to prevent shin splints?
You can help prevent shin splints by:
- Warming up before exercise
- Gradually increasing your activity level
- Cross-training to reduce stress on the shins
- Choosing appropriate footwear
- Strengthening and stretching the leg muscles
Final thoughts
Shin splints can be a painful and frustrating condition, but with rest and proper care, many people can recover successfully. If you have concerns about shin splints or ongoing pain, it’s best to speak to your GP or healthcare provider.
