Shin splints
Find out what shin splints are, how they happen, and what you can do about them.
Shin splints usually happen when you do exercise like running.
You'll have pain and tenderness along the front of your lower leg (shin).
Shin splints usually get better within a few weeks. There are things you can do to get better quicker.
Do
use painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen gel (or ibuprofen tablets if you need them) to ease the pain
put an ice pack (or bag of frozen vegetables) in a towel on your shin for up to 20 minutes every 2 to 3 hours
switch to gentle exercise such as yoga or swimming while healing
exercise on soft ground, if you can, when you're feeling better
make sure your trainers or shoes support your feet properly
Don't
do not continue doing the exercise that caused your shin splints
do not rush back into exercise at the level you were at – build your exercise routine back up slowly
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.
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.
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.
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
