Shin splints are a common occurrence with new runners, or experienced runners that have experienced a change in their training load, shoes, or running surface. Dull pain and tenderness is experienced in the lower half of the shin and is caused by inflammation of the periosteum (the connective tissue surrounding bone). This is due to the repeat stress of impact, where the tissue does not have enough adequate time to naturally repair itself. If left untreated, this repetitive stress can even lead to stress fractures in the lower leg.
A physiotherapist can help by diagnosing the condition, releasing the tight muscles surrounding the tibia, correcting poor shoes and/or biomechanics, and by identifying which muscles need to be strengthened in order to run pain-free. Often a few small tweaks can make a large difference!
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