Shin splints
Overview
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
Shin splints usually happen when you do exercise like running. You'll have pain and tenderness along the front of your lower leg (shin).
Causes
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 timeyou run or jump on hard surfacesyou do not have a good running technique
Treatment
If a GP thinks you have shin splints they'll ask about your symptoms and examine your leg. If it's not getting better, they may be able to refer you to a physiotherapist. Physiotherapyis available free of charge on the NHS throughout the UK but waiting times can be long. You can also get it privately. If you have shin splints, you might be able to refer yourself directly to services for help with your condition without seeing a GP. To find out if there are any services in your area: ask the reception staff at your GP surgery check your GP surgery's website contact your integrated care board (ICB) –find your local ICB search online for NHS treatment for shin splints near you If you have shin splints, you might be able to refer yourself directly to services for help with your condition without seeing a GP. To find out if there are any services in your area: ask the reception staff at your GP surgerycheck your GP surgery's websitecontact your integrated care board (ICB) –find your local ICBsearch online for NHS treatment for shin splints near you