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Shin splints

Shin splints is a type of shin pain, usually caused by exercise. It's not serious and there are things you can do to help get better.

Check if you have shin splints

Shin splints usually happen when you do exercise like running.

You'll have pain and tenderness along the front of your lower leg (shin).

Things you can do to help with shin splints

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

  • warm up before exercise and stretch after exercise

  • 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

Non-urgent advice: 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

Treatment for shin splints

If a GP thinks you have shin splints they'll ask about your symptoms and examine your leg. If it's not getting better, they may be able to refer you to a physiotherapist.

Physiotherapy is available free of charge on the NHS throughout the UK but waiting times can be long. You can also get it privately.

Find a physiotherapist
Information:

Self-refer for treatment

If you have shin splints, you might be able to refer yourself directly to services for help with your condition without seeing a GP.

To find out if there are any services in your area:

  • ask the reception staff at your GP surgery
  • check your GP surgery's website
  • contact your integrated care board (ICB) – find your local ICB
  • search online for NHS treatment for shin splints near you

Urgent advice: 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.

Causes of shin splints

Shin splints happen when you've put too much stress on your leg.

You're more likely to get shin splints if:

Page last reviewed: 9 February 2023
Next review due: 9 February 2026