During running, repetitive stresses can cause small tears in the attachment of the muscle to the shin bone (tibia). Tibialis anterior (anterior shin splints) and tibialis posterior (posterior shin splints) muscles are involved in limiting pronation during foot strike.

 
Contributing factors

• Faulty foot, knee, or hip mechanics
• Muscle imbalances (tight or weak)
• Training errors (overuse)

Symptoms

Tenderness along the front or inside the shin bone is typical. Symptoms are similar to tibial stress fracture and caution is needed to diagnose the injury and make the appropriate treatment.

 
Treatment

• Ice
• Rest
• Reduce mileage
• Correct muscle imbalances (weak or tight lower leg muscles)
• Evaluate footwear
• Orthotics (correct foot mechanics)
• Identify and address training errors