Shin Splints Explained: Causes, Treatment & How Physio Can Help You Get Back on Track

Aaron Thomas
Sep 30
4 min read

Aaron providing hands-on physiotherapy massage for shin splints treatment at Pro Perform Physio Woodvale.

Shin splints are one of the most common overuse injuries we see at Pro Perform Physiotherapy in Woodvale. Whether you’re a runner, gym-goer, or just starting a new exercise routine, shin splints can quickly derail your progress and make every step painful.

In this blog, we’ll explain what shin splints are, what causes them, how they’re treated, and – most importantly – how physiotherapy can help you recover and prevent them from coming back.

What Are Shin Splints?

Shin splints, also known as medial tibial stress syndrome, describe pain along the inner edge of the shinbone (tibia). This pain usually develops after exercise and is caused by repetitive stress on the bone, muscles, and connective tissues around the shin.

Typical symptoms include:

A dull or sharp ache along the inner shin
Pain that worsens during or after running, jumping, or high-impact activity
Tenderness when pressing along the shin bone
Stiffness or aching after rest, particularly first thing in the morning

Shin splints are especially common in runners, dancers, and athletes involved in sports with repetitive running or jumping.

Common Causes of Shin Splints

There isn’t one single cause – shin splints usually develop due to a combination of training, biomechanical, and strength factors. The most common contributors include:

Overtraining: Increasing running distance, intensity, or frequency too quickly.
Poor footwear: Worn-out or unsupportive shoes can increase stress on the shins.
Running on hard or uneven surfaces: Concrete footpaths and uneven trails can overload the tibia.
Flat feet or over-pronation: Foot mechanics that place extra strain on the shin muscles.
Muscle weakness or imbalance: Weak calves, hips, and core muscles reduce shock absorption.
Poor biomechanics: Inefficient running technique increases repetitive load.

How Physiotherapists Diagnose Shin Splints

At Pro Perform Physio, our first step is a thorough assessment to confirm whether your shin pain is truly shin splints or another condition.

Your physio will:

Take a detailed history of your activity levels, training, and symptoms.
Perform a physical examination, checking for tenderness, strength deficits, and biomechanics.
Rule out other conditions such as stress fractures, tendon injuries, or compartment syndrome.
Conduct a running analysis or movement screen if needed, to identify underlying issues in technique or control.

Physiotherapy Treatment for Shin Splints

The good news? With the right treatment, shin splints can usually be managed without long-term issues. At Pro Perform Physio, our evidence-based approach focuses on both symptom relief and addressing the root cause.

Treatment options may include:

Hands-on therapy – soft tissue release, massage, and dry needling to relieve muscle tension and reduce pain.
Exercise rehabilitation – progressive strengthening for calves, hips, and core, plus mobility drills for ankles and lower limbs.
Running Assessment – improving running technique to reduce repetitive strain.
Footwear and orthotics advice – ensuring your shoes provide proper support.
Load management – adjusting your training plan and providing a safe return-to-run program.

How to Prevent Shin Splints from Coming Back

Once you’re pain-free, prevention is the key to staying that way.

Tips to keep shin splints away include:

Increase training gradually (no more than 10% per week).
Warm up with mobility drills and dynamic stretches.
Wear supportive, well-fitted footwear (replace runners every 600–800 km).
Add strength training to improve shock absorption and biomechanics.
Train on softer surfaces where possible (grass, trails, or athletics track).
Get regular sports physiotherapy check-ups if you’re a competitive athlete.

Why Choose Pro Perform Physiotherapy?

At Pro Perform Physio in Woodvale, we understand the frustration of injuries that keep you off the track, field, or court. Here’s why local athletes and active individuals trust us:

Experienced sports physiotherapists with running and triathlon backgrounds
Onsite gym for guided exercise rehabilitation
Tailored treatment plans – no cookie-cutter approach.
Convenient location near Woodvale Boulevard Shopping Centre with free parking.
Proudly supporting patients from Woodvale, Kingsley, Edgewater, Greenwood, Wanneroo, Craigie, Padbury, and surrounds.

FAQs About Shin Splints

How do I know if my shin splints are serious?

If your pain persists at rest, worsens at night, or doesn’t improve with rest and treatment, you should see a physio to rule out stress fractures.

How long does it take to recover from shin splints?

Mild cases may improve in 2-4 weeks with treatment, while chronic cases can take 6-8 weeks or longer depending on severity.

Can I keep running with shin splints?

It depends on the severity. Sometimes reduced training is possible, but pushing through pain usually makes it worse. Your physio will guide your safe return.

Do orthotics help with shin splints?

Yes, especially if flat feet or over-pronation are contributing factors. Your physio can assess whether orthotics are right for you.