Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome): What Causes Them?

Medial tibial stress syndrome, often called shin splints, causes exercise-related pain along the inner border of the shin.

Common symptoms

Pain is usually brought on by running or impact activity and may initially settle with rest. The area can feel tender along a broader section of the shin rather than one tiny point.

Why does it happen?

Training errors, rapid increases in mileage, poor recovery, calf weakness, reduced ankle movement and changes in footwear can all contribute.

What can help?

Treatment usually centres on load management, strengthening, mobility work and a gradual return to running rather than trying to push through pain.

When should it be assessed?

More focal pain, pain at rest, night pain or increasing tenderness may need further assessment to rule out a bone stress injury.

How Pentland Podiatry can help

Pentland Podiatry can review training load, calf function, ankle movement and footwear and help you return to running more safely.

If this problem is affecting your walking, work, exercise or day-to-day comfort, contact Pentland Podiatry in Penicuik to arrange an assessment.