Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (Shin Splints)
Updated: Sep 29, 2019

Cause: Overuse, flatfoot, poor gait technique.
Appearance: Pain in the lower inside portion of the leg during exercise (distal medial tibia).

How to Diagnose: Clinical exam, palpation of the lower inside portion of the tibia (leg bone). MRI, bone scan.
Treatment:
- Rest, ice, elevation, compression
- Anti-inflammatories (if ok to take)
- Orthotics are first-line treatment
- Brace (custom > OTC)
- Rest from athletics for 6 weeks
- If severe – immobilization in boot for 4 weeks
- Surgery (for athletes who have failed conservative care for at least 6 months)
o Return to sports at 6-12 months
§ Orthotics will need to be used indefinitely
Long-term prognosis: Conservative care works in the vast majority of cases. Orthotics work well to prevent strain. Surgery has varying success rates and thus should be a last resort.
Who to call: Podiatrist, orthopedic surgeon