Shin splints or a stress fracture: what are the signs?
Shin splints usually cause a dull ache along a longer stretch of the inner shin that eases as you warm up. A stress fracture tends to cause sharp pain in one small spot that gets worse with activity and can hurt at rest. If you are unsure, stop running and get assessed.
Signs that point to shin splints
- Tenderness along several centimetres of the inner shin bone
- Pain at the start of a run that may settle as you warm up
- Aching after activity that improves with rest
Signs that point to a stress fracture
- Pain you can pinpoint with one finger
- Pain that builds during a run and lingers after
- Pain when hopping on one leg, at night or at rest
- Possible swelling over the sore spot
When to get it checked
A suspected stress fracture needs proper assessment and sometimes imaging. A physiotherapist can help you tell the difference and plan a safe return to running.
At Performance Sports Therapy in Gloucester, our physiotherapy team can help you find the cause and build a plan.
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