Sports & Performance
Shin Splints
Pain along the inner shin, usually from a rapid increase in running load.
Also called: Medial tibial stress syndrome.
Shin pain in runners requires careful evaluation, because bone stress injuries can present similarly to shin splints and need different, more conservative management.
It typically develops after a relatively rapid increase in running volume, intensity, or a change in surface or footwear.
Why this matters
Training volume, surface, and footwear are almost always part of the discussion, since this condition is closely tied to how quickly load was increased.
Distinguishing shin splints from a developing stress fracture matters, because continuing to run through a stress fracture can turn a manageable issue into a more serious one.
The brain & nervous-system connection
Where the nervous system fits in
Foot and ankle mechanics influence how load travels up the leg to the shin, which is why those areas are assessed alongside the site of pain itself.
Running form and cadence are learned motor patterns, and adjustments to them are sometimes part of managing load through the shin.
What we look at
We look for patterns, not a single test
- Detailed health history and consultation
- NeuroInfiniti Stress Response Evaluation
- Posture and movement
- Balance and coordination testing
- Eye movement or neurological screening when appropriate
- Grip or motor-function testing when appropriate
- Palpation and spinal function
- Other examination procedures based on the individual
Not every person receives every test. What we perform depends on your history, your age and what the examination shows as we go.
Scope of care
What this does — and doesn't — mean
What we do
- • We evaluate chiropractic and musculoskeletal function.
- • We look at nervous-system-related functional findings that fall within our scope.
- • We assess movement, balance and coordination findings.
- • We measure stress-response patterns with the NeuroInfiniti evaluation.
- • We make individualized chiropractic care recommendations and re-measure over time.
What we don't claim
- • We do not diagnose, treat or cure diseases.
- • Chiropractic care is not a treatment for dementia, Alzheimer's disease or other neurological diseases.
- • Chiropractic care is not a replacement for medical care, testing or medication.
- • No outcome is promised. Results vary from person to person.
This is a concern where medical evaluation, imaging or co-management may be the right first step. Dr. Mike Geran will say so plainly if that is what the history and examination suggest.
Common questions
- Will I be adjusted on the first visit?
- Generally no. The first visit is an evaluation visit. Dr. Geran reviews the findings and makes recommendations at the follow-up visit.
- Do I need imaging before I come in?
- Not usually. If your history or examination suggests imaging is needed, we will say so and help arrange the right next step.
When medical evaluation may be needed
Focal, worsening bone pain — particularly night pain — needs medical assessment to exclude a stress fracture.
- Focal, worsening bone pain, especially at rest or at night
- Pain that persists despite reduced training load
Related at Foothills Chiropractic
- Joint Pain & Staying Active — Shoulders, hips, knees, ankles — extremity function matters as much as the spine.
- Achilles Tendinopathy — Pain and stiffness in the Achilles tendon, usually load-related.
- Ankle Pain — Pain or restriction at the ankle, often after an old injury.
- Ankle Sprain — Ligament injury from rolling or twisting the ankle.
Think Foothills Chiropractic might be right for you?
Start Here walks you through what the process looks like, so you can decide whether taking the next step makes sense for you.