Shin splints

Overview

Muscles and tissue pull on the shin bone.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Shin pain with running

When to get medical care

Causes

Overuse, flat feet, and hard surfaces.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Runners
• Military recruits

Possible complications

• Stress fracture

Diagnosis

A clinician examines your shins.

Questions you may be asked

• Training changes

The exam

Pressing along the bone.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• X-ray or MRI: If a stress fracture is possible.

Treatment

Rest and rebuild slowly.

Self-care

• Rest 2 to 4 weeks from running
• Ice the shins
• Try swimming or biking
• Get good shoes

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To prevent it:

• Increase mileage slowly

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to an orthopedist (bone and joint doctor).

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people keep up normal school and work. Rest when you need to.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Heals with rest.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Shin splints