Shin splints are a common injury among those who participate in sports involving intense running, jumping, kicking or other high-impact movement. Shin splints, also known as medial tibial stress syndrome, according to Mayo Clinic, specifically refers to an injury to the tibia or shin bone in the lower front part of the leg. It is usually the result of over-training or repetitive movement, particularly in activities such as soccer and basketball in which there are abrupt starts and stops. When a person develops shin splints, there are noticeable symptoms.
Pain
Improper training or training too hard can cause pain and tenderness along the inner part of your shin. If you palpate the area next to the shin bone, it may be tender. Initially, the pain may just occur when you are working out and resolve when you stop the activity. In the early stages, it may be a dull ache throughout the shin area. If left untreated, your pain may become constant and more severe. When symptoms first appear, you may need a 1- to 2-week period to allow the symptoms to calm down before resuming activity.
Swelling
Initially, there may be mild swelling in the shin. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons states that, as this condition worsens, the muscles and tendons in the shin can become inflamed. Swelling may also occur in your periosteum, a layer of tissue that covers the shin bone. These symptoms should resolve after a period of avoiding certain activities. Rice University suggests that, at this stage, resting and icing the area will prevent complications such as stress fractures in the tibia.
Warmth and Inflammation
In severe cases of shin splints, you may develop more serious swelling in the shin area. Sometimes after the initial period of rest, your symptoms may return as soon as you try to resume activity. The lower leg may become warm to the touch due to severe inflammation. Your pain may prevent you from walking and participating in everyday activities. At this point you should talk to your physician. You may need to completely immobilize the area for a longer period of time to allow the injury to heal. Afterward, you will need to incorporate regular stretching and strengthening exercises for the lower leg area to avoid re-injuring the shin.
