If you've noticed pain on the front of your shins after working out, it is probably no cause for alarm. You might be suffering from shin splints, which are caused by strenuous exercise. If you have not exercised in a while and have recently started exercising again, pain from shin splints may appear. Talk to your doctor before treating shin splints yourself.
Significance
Shin splints, also known as medial tibial stress syndrome, are often not serious and may go away on their own. You might notice pain in the tibia, the large bone on the front of your shin, after putting significant stress on your shins. Shin splints do not usually require the care of a doctor unless they are accompanied by additional symptoms.
Causes
Running downhill can cause shin splints because you are putting extra stress on the front of the shin, where the tibia is located. Individuals who play soccer, tennis or basketball may also experience shin splints because these sports involve running in short bursts. Anyone can get shin splints, from amateur sports players to professional athletes. In some cases, shin splints can be caused by stress fractures, which will require care and treatment from a doctor.
Treatments
Shin splints will usually go away with a few days of rest. Reduce pain and swelling by elevating your shins above the level of your heart with a pillow. To reduce pain, wrap your shins for 20 minutes, four times a day, with an icepack wrapped in a towel. Over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can also help reduce pain while your shins heal. In some cases, you may require one month for shin splints to heal, particularly if they are accompanied by stress fractures.
Warning
If your shins are swollen, you are completely unable to walk on them, or your shins feel hot to the touch, see a doctor. If you think your shin splints might be accompanied by stress fractures in the bone, talk to your doctor. To prevent shin splints in the future, take frequent breaks and stop running if you begin to feel any pain. Your doctor may recommend supportive footwear or shoe inserts to prevent future injury.
