Shin splints is a term used to describe pain in the front of the lower leg, between the knee and the ankle.
The term shin splints refers to the pain in the lower leg. This pain can be caused by a number of factors, including the following:
Shin splints are generally caused by some form of vigorous athletic activity. They can result from overtraining during an exercise program. When the person exercises often without proper conditioning, the lower leg is unable to withstand the chronic stress. People who do sprinting or long-distance running are at risk for shin splints. Activities that involve sudden starts, stops, and jumps also increase the risk for shin splints. These include: