Signs and Symptoms

Initially, shin splint symptoms present with vigorous activity and may linger even after finishing. The type of pain often associated with shin splints can be described as a deep ache in the bone and may be burning in nature. In other cases, the pain may feel like sharp needles in the lower leg that shoot toward the ankle. Usually the pain is relieved with rest. If not adequately treated, the onset of pain can occur earlier in the activity and relief may take longer. In severe cases, pain may be present at rest without any activity to aggravate it.