Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome)
Overview
Shin splints describe pain along the inner edge of the tibia (shin bone), often caused by repetitive stress on the bone and surrounding muscles.
It’s common among runners, dancers, and athletes who increase training volume too quickly or have poor foot mechanics.
Signs & Symptoms
- Dull, aching pain along the inner shin
- Pain that worsens during running or jumping
- Tenderness or mild swelling along the tibia
- Pain that decreases with rest
- Tightness in the calf or ankle
Causes
- Overuse or rapid increase in training intensity
- Flat feet or overpronation
- Tight calf muscles or weak foot stabilizers
- Running on hard or uneven surfaces
- Poor footwear or inadequate recovery
How a Chiropractor Can Help
At Unify Rehab & Performance, we start with a biomechanical and gait analysis to determine the underlying contributors—such as poor shock absorption, mobility restrictions, or strength imbalances.
Our care includes:
- Manual therapy and adjustments for ankle and lower-leg alignment.
- Soft tissue therapy for the calves, tibialis posterior, and surrounding structures.
- Acupuncture to reduce pain and promote tissue repair.
- Rehabilitation focused on lower-limb strength, balance, and gradual loading.
- Education on training progression, footwear, and recovery strategies.
By addressing both the symptoms and movement patterns, we help you return to activity with confidence and durability.