Shin Splints Exercises: How to Relieve Pain & Strengthen Your Legs

Experiencing shin pain while walking or running? You might be dealing with shin splints, also known as medial tibial stress syndrome. This condition is common among runners, athletes, dancers, and anyone who engages in high-impact activities.

If you’ve felt a dull, aching pain along the front of your lower leg, especially during or after exercise, this guide will help you understand why shin splints happen, how to relieve pain, and what exercises can help prevent them.

What Causes Shin Splints?

Shin splints occur due to repetitive stress on the shinbone and surrounding tissues. This condition is often linked to:

• Sudden increases in training intensity or duration
• Running on hard or uneven surfaces
• Worn-out or improper footwear
• Poor running mechanics
• Muscle imbalances (tight calf muscles and weak muscles in the front of the leg)
• Weakness and poor activation of the intrinsic muscles in the feet

Best Exercises for Shin Splints (and Injury Prevention)

Click the video below to watch Dr. Joe’s three favourite exercises for anyone suffering from shin splints (or if you want to prevent them and other lower limb pains!)

Shin Splint Treatment Options at Leaside Sports Medicine

If shin splints persist, treatment can speed up recovery and prevent recurrence. At Leaside Sports Medicine, we offer:

• Gait Analysis & Custom Orthotics – To correct biomechanical imbalances and improve movement efficiency.
• Shockwave Therapy – A non-invasive treatment that promotes tissue healing and reduces pain.
• Manual Therapy & Soft Tissue Mobilization – Hands-on techniques to release tight muscles and improve circulation.
• Dry Needling – Helps relieve muscle tightness and reduce inflammation.
• Individualized Rehab Programs – Tailored exercise plans designed by our specialists to rebuild strength and prevent future injuries.

When to See a Specialist

Persistent shin pain may also indicate a more serious condition, such as a stress fracture or compartment syndrome. So if you’re struggling with shin splints, schedule an appointment with us to diagnose, treat and get you back moving better and feeling better quickly!