Shin splints (medial tibial stress syndrome)

Shin splints — medial tibial stress syndrome — is a common cause of pain along the inner shinbone, especially in runners and anyone increasing their training load. It usually comes on gradually and eases with rest, but can return if the underlying load issues aren't addressed.

Physiotherapy helps by managing training load, building lower-leg strength, and guiding a gradual return to running. In this guide we cover load management and evidence-based conservative care for medial tibial stress syndrome — practical guidance for clinicians and clear, realistic advice so runners understand how to settle the pain and build back up without it flaring again.