Shin splints
Shin splints is a type of shin pain, usually caused by exercise. It's not serious and there are things you can do to help get better.Symptoms of shin splints
Shin splints usually happen when you do exercise like running.
You'll have pain and tenderness along the front of your lower leg (shin).
Things you can do to help with shin splints
Shin splints usually get better within a few weeks. There are things you can do to get better quicker.
Non-urgent advice: See a GP if:
- you've tried things to help with shin splints but the pain is getting worse or it's not getting better
Refer yourself for back or joint help
In many areas you may be able to get help, such as physiotherapy, from NHS community musculoskeletal (MSK) services without needing a referral from a GP.
Treatment for shin splints
Shin splints can usually be diagnosed by examining your examining your leg and asking about your symptoms.
If your symptoms are not getting better, you may need physiotherapy.
Physiotherapy is available free of charge on the NHS throughout the UK but waiting times can be long. You can also get it privately.
Urgent advice: Get help from NHS 111 if:
- you have shin splints and the pain is severe
- you've injured your shin
You can call 111 or get help from 111 online.
Causes of shin splints
Shin splints happen when you've put too much stress on your leg.
You're more likely to get shin splints if:
- you have started exercising after not being active for some time
- you run or jump on hard surfaces
- you do not have a good running technique
Page last reviewed: 9 February 2023
Next review due: 9 February 2026