Why Shin Splints Happen
Shin splints—often used as a general term for pain along the front or inside of the lower leg—commonly develop when training volume or intensity increases too quickly. Whether you’re a new runner building mileage or a seasoned athlete ramping up workouts, those “too much, too soon” changes can overload the muscles and connective tissues around the tibia before they’ve had time to adapt.
Pain can occur on either the inside of the shin (medial tibial stress syndrome) or the front of the leg (anterior tibial stress syndrome). These conditions often stem from muscle imbalances, tightness, or improper footwear. In more severe cases, shin pain can also signal a stress fracture or compartment syndrome, making early evaluation and proper diagnosis key to preventing chronic injury.
How We Help You Move Pain-Free
At Elite Sport & Spine, we go beyond rest and ice. Our sports chiropractors perform a thorough movement and gait assessment to pinpoint the root cause of your shin pain—whether it’s faulty mechanics, muscle imbalance, or tissue irritation. Treatment often includes soft-tissue therapy, Graston Technique, and Active Release Technique (ART) to break down adhesions, improve flexibility, and restore healthy movement patterns.
We complement hands-on care with corrective exercises and progressive loading plans to rebuild strength and resilience. Most patients see significant improvement within just a few sessions. Our goal is simple: help you recover quickly, prevent future flare-ups, and get you back to your activity stronger than before.