MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Shin splints

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Shin splints

Shin splints is the common name for the medical condition called medial tibial stress syndrome in which pain occurs along the tibia (shin bone) in the front of the lower leg. The pain is a result of small tears in the area the lower leg muscles' attachment to the tibia. Shin splints are typically caused from intense or vigorous athletic activity and can be resolved with adequate rest, stretching and modifying your exercise routine.

Update Date: 7/17/2007

Updated by: Robert Hurd, MD, Professor of Endocrinology, Department of Biology, Xavier University, Cincinnati, OH, and physician in the Primary Care Clinic, Cincinnati Veterans Administration Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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