Shin Splints & Shin Pain

Shin pain is common in runners and people who have recently increased walking or high-impact activity. Without a clear plan it can drag on and make it hard to stay active.

Typical shin splints symptoms

People often describe:

• Dull or aching pain along the inside or front of the shin
• Symptoms that start during or after exercise and ease with rest
• Tenderness when pressing along the affected area
• Worse pain after rapid increases in distance, speed or hills

What might be causing shin pain

The most common diagnosis is medial tibial stress syndrome (“shin splints”), but we also consider:

• Bone stress reactions or stress fractures
• Muscle or tendon overload around the shin
• Biomechanical and footwear issues increasing lower leg load

Careful assessment helps distinguish between these possibilities.

How we assess shin pain

We aim to understand both the local tissue response and the training context. Assessment includes:

• Detailed history of training, surfaces and footwear
• Palpation along the shin bone and surrounding muscles
• Assessment of foot posture, leg alignment and calf flexibility
• Observation of walking and running technique where appropriate

If we suspect bone stress, we discuss imaging and medical review.

Treatment options

Management typically involves:

• Structured load management – adjusting distance, pace and frequency
• Strengthening of calf, foot and hip muscles
• Footwear advice and possible use of orthotics to improve load distribution
• Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT) where appropriate
• Guided return-to-running planning through our sports foot and ankle injuries service

Who we see with shin splints

We see new and experienced runners, people starting boot-camp style classes and those returning to impact activity after a break. Early, accurate advice can prevent minor shin pain becoming a long-term problem.

Shin pain treatment in Forest Hill

Our Forest Hill clinic is convenient for patients from Blackburn South and Mount Waverley seeking help with shin splints and related problems.

Book an appointment for shin pain

If shin pain is stopping you from running or walking comfortably, a structured assessment can clarify the diagnosis and next steps. You can book online or contact the clinic to arrange a time.