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Shin splints, medically referred to as medial tibial stress syndrome, are one of the most common causes of exercise-related lower leg pain. They occur when the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue around the shin become overloaded, leading to inflammation and discomfort. At Seaforth Physio Northern Beaches, we frequently treat runners, gym-goers, and athletes with shin splints, helping them recover quickly and safely.
Shin splints often develop when there is a sudden increase in training load, particularly in running, jumping, or high-impact sports. Contributing factors can include:
Poor or worn-out footwear
Flat feet or over-pronation
Tight calf muscles
Weak hip or core strength
Training on hard or uneven surfaces
The condition typically presents as a dull, aching pain along the inner edge of the shin that worsens with activity and improves with rest.
1. Pain and Load Management
The first step in treatment is identifying and reducing aggravating activities. At Seaforth Physio, we’ll guide you on modifying your training load, using ice for pain relief, and recommending appropriate footwear or orthotics if needed.
2. Stretching and Mobility Work
Tight calves and limited ankle mobility often contribute to shin splints. Your physiotherapist will prescribe targeted stretches and mobility exercises to reduce stress on the shin.
3. Strengthening Programs
Strengthening the calves, hips, and core is essential to improve shock absorption and running mechanics. At Seaforth Physio, we tailor exercise programs to each patient, ensuring progressive loading without aggravating symptoms.
4. Biomechanical Assessment
We assess how you move—looking at foot posture, running style, and training habits. Correcting poor biomechanics with cues, orthotic advice, or gait retraining can significantly reduce recurrence.
5. Gradual Return to Activity
Our physiotherapists develop a staged return-to-sport or return-to-running plan. This helps you build tolerance while minimising the risk of shin pain returning.
Shin splints can be painful and frustrating, but with the right physiotherapy approach they are very manageable. At Seaforth Physio, we provide hands-on treatment, exercise rehabilitation, and personalised advice to get you back to running and sport with confidence. If you’re struggling with persistent shin pain, don’t ignore it—early intervention makes recovery quicker and prevents long-term issues.
