Shin splints
Other causes of lower leg pain
Pain in the lower legs and shins can also be caused by:
- stress fractures (tinycracks in the bone) the pain often affects one leg, but can affect both,and is usually focused in a small area; there may also be some swelling
- a sprain orstrain this can cause swelling, bruising and painthat continuesduring rest
- a tendon injury symptoms include pain, stiffness, weakness and a grating or crackling sensation when moving the affected area
- reduced blood supply to the legs (peripheral arterial disease) this causes an aching pain triggered by physical activity that fades after a few minutes of rest
- swelling of the leg muscle (compartment syndrome) this can cause cramping pain in the musclesthatdevelops gradually duringexerciseand fades quickly at rest
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Find out what shin splints are, how they happen, and what you can do about them.
Symptoms of shin splints
The main symptom of shin splints is pain inthe shin bones, which run down the front of yourlower legs. The pain tends to: begin soon after starting exercise gradually improve when resting sometime
Causes of shin splints
It's not always clear what causes shin splints. They're usually brought on by running or repetitive weight bearing on the legs. It's thought this leads to swelling (inflammation) of the tissue around
Treating shin splints at home
Shin splints can usually be treated at home. The followingmay help relieve the pain and allow your legs toheal: rest stop the activity that causes your shin splints for at least two to three weeks;
When to see your GP
It's a good idea to see your GP if your pain doesn't improve despite the treatments mentioned above. Your GP may: ask about your symptoms and examine your legs to try to work out what's causing you
Preventing shin splints
The following measuresmay help reduceyour chances of gettingshin splints: wear trainers with appropriate cushioning and supportit may help tospeak to an expert ata specialist running shop for advice
Other causes of lower leg pain
Pain in the lower legs and shins can also be caused by: stress fractures (tinycracks in the bone) the pain often affects one leg, but can affect both,and is usually focused in a small area; there ma
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