Shin Pain When Running? Causes and How to Fix It
If you're experiencing shin pain when running, you're not alone. This is one of the most common complaints we see at Lower Limb Clinic, and it's often a sign of Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (Shin Splints) or Tibial Stress Fracture. The good news? With proper diagnosis and treatment, most patients experience significant improvement within 4-8 weeks with proper management.
Common Causes of Shin Pain When Running
Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (Shin Splints)
Overloading of the muscles attaching to the shin bone causes diffuse pain along the inner shin. Common in runners who've increased training too quickly.
Who typically experiences this: New runners, those returning to running, runners who've rapidly increased mileage.
Tibial Stress Fracture
A hairline fracture in the tibia causes localised pain that worsens with running and may hurt at rest.
Who typically experiences this: Runners with heavy training loads, those with low bone density, female athletes.
Compartment Syndrome
Pressure builds in the muscle compartments of the leg during running, causing aching pain and tightness that resolves with rest.
Who typically experiences this: Runners, especially those with very tight calves.
Without proper assessment, it's impossible to know exactly what's causing your shin pain when running. What works for Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (Shin Splints) may not help—or could worsen—Tibial Stress Fracture.
When Should You Seek Professional Help?
You should book an assessment if:
- Shin pain with every run
- Pain persists after running
- You have localised tenderness at one spot
- Pain is affecting your running or daily activities
"Most patients we see have tried various home remedies before booking. You're not wasting our time—persistent symptoms warrant professional assessment."
Our Diagnostic Approach
At your initial consultation, we'll:
Take a detailed history
Understanding when your shin pain when running started, what makes it better or worse, and your activity levels.
Physical examination
Hands-on assessment of your foot, ankle, and lower limb.
Biomechanical assessment
Evaluating how you stand and walk, identifying any contributing factors.
Gait analysis (if indicated)
Video and pressure plate analysis to understand your movement patterns.
We'll explain our findings clearly and discuss all treatment options before recommending a plan.
How We Treat Shin Pain When Running
Depending on your diagnosis, treatment may include:
Clinical assessment
Distinguish between different causes of shin pain
Load management
Structured training modification
Gait analysis
Identify running form factors contributing to shin loading
Orthotics if indicated
Reduce tibial stress in runners who overpronate
"We don't believe in one-size-fits-all treatment. Your plan will be tailored to your specific diagnosis, lifestyle, and goals."
"I'd been suffering with shin pain when running for months before finally coming to Lower Limb Clinic. Within weeks of starting treatment, the improvement was remarkable. Wish I'd come sooner!"
— Verified Patient Review
Common Questions About Shin Pain When Running
Ready to Find Out What's Causing Your Shin Pain When Running?
Book a comprehensive assessment with our MSc-qualified specialist. Most patients wish they'd come sooner.
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