About Shin Splints
Shin splints, or medial tibial stress syndrome, cause shin pain when the lower leg is overloaded with running. Physical therapy manages load and builds calf, foot, and hip strength to improve impact tolerance and reduce flare-ups.
Expected Recovery Window
Mild/early: 2–4 weeks. Moderate: 4–8 weeks. Stress reaction / higher severity: 8–12+ weeks.
Common Symptoms
Aching or sharp pain along the inner shin (tibia) during or after running; tenderness to touch along the shin; symptoms that improve with rest but return with loading; stiffness or pain at the start of a run; worsening pain with jumping, hills, or higher mileage.
Common Causes
Rapid increase in running volume or intensity; too much downhill or speed work; training on hard or cambered surfaces; calf and foot strength deficits; limited ankle mobility; worn shoes; biomechanical overload of the tibia and surrounding muscles.
How We Treat Shin Splints
We treat shin splints by identifying the specific overload driver — training load, mechanics, strength, mobility, or footwear. Treatment focuses on graded return-to-running, calf and foot strengthening, ankle mobility, and hip control to reduce tibial loading. We also help you adjust training so symptoms calm down without losing fitness.
