Shin splints

Alternative names:

lower leg pain; pain in the shins

Definition:

Pain in the front of the lower legs caused by strenuous exercise, usually after a period of relative inactivity.

Considerations:

Shin splints may be any of 4 types of problems, none of which are serious. All types of shin splints can be resolved with rest.

Common causes:

Posterior tibial shin splints, in the front portion of the legs, account for about 75% of the problems affecting athletes.

Tibial periostitis occurs further toward the front of the leg than posterior tibial shin splints, and the bone itself is tender.

Anterior compartment syndrome affects the outer side of the front of the leg.

Stress fracture is usually a localized, sharp pain with tenderness 1 or 2 inches below the knee. This condition is likely to occur 2 or 3 weeks into a new training program after the legs have taken a real pounding.

Note: This list is not all inclusive and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for this symptom occurring alone or in combination with other problems.