Shin splints, medically known as Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome, are a common cause of lower leg pain that occur when repetitive stress irritates the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue around the shinbone (tibia). This overuse injury most often affects runners, athletes, dancers, and military recruits, but it can occur in anyone who increases physical activity too quickly.
Although shin splints are often associated with exercise, they can also develop in individuals who spend long hours on their feet, wear improper footwear, or have muscle imbalances in the legs.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we specialize in helping patients from Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas recover from shin splints safely and effectively — restoring comfort, function, and confidence in movement.
The tibia, or shinbone, is surrounded by connective tissue and muscles that help absorb shock during walking and running. When these tissues are repeatedly overloaded, they pull on the bone and its covering (periosteum), leading to inflammation, pain, and tenderness.
Over time, small microtears can develop, resulting in chronic irritation if not addressed early. Shin splints are often considered a precursor to stress fractures when left untreated.
Common causes
Risk Factors:
Shin splint symptoms typically develop gradually and worsen with continued activity.
Common signs include:
These symptoms can affect one or both legs and are often mistaken for stress fractures or compartment syndrome.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, Dr. Robert L. Burke performs a comprehensive evaluation to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions such as stress fractures, tendonitis, or nerve entrapment.
Diagnostic process includes:
Imaging:
Accurate diagnosis ensures proper treatment and prevents progression to more serious injury.
Treatment for shin splints focuses on relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and addressing the underlying cause to prevent recurrence.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Most patients recover successfully with conservative management and a structured rehabilitation plan.
Surgical Treatments
Surgery is rarely required for shin splints, but in chronic or severe cases that fail to improve, Dr. Burke may consider minimally invasive procedures to relieve persistent pain or correct biomechanical issues.
Used in rare cases involving tissue thickening or nerve entrapment. These options are reserved for patients with recurring, treatment-resistant shin splints.
Rehabilitation goals:
Return to activity should be gradual, guided by pain tolerance and functional improvement.
With proper management, most patients recover fully from shin splints and return to their activities without limitation. However, prevention is key to avoiding recurrence.
Prevention tips:
Early intervention and mindful training protect against future injury.
You should schedule an appointment with Dr. Burke Orthopedics if
Prompt evaluation ensures faster recovery and prevents long-term damage.
If lower leg pain is affecting your mobility or performance, professional orthopedic care can help.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we provide comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for shin splints and other lower leg injuries using advanced, evidence-based methods.
We proudly serve Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas, helping athletes and active adults recover stronger than before.
Call (713) 436-3488 or Request an Appointment Online to schedule your consultation with Dr. Robert L. Burke, board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in lower leg and sports injuries.
