Pain in the shin or calf is common, especially in people who run, play sport or have recently stepped up their activity. Most cases are linked to load: how much, how fast and how often the leg is used. Many settle with sensible changes to training and a structured rehab plan, but some need imaging or a medical review.
Common lower leg conditions
Shin splints (medial tibial stress syndrome) (shin splints, medial tibial stress syndrome)
Shin splints, or medial tibial stress syndrome, is pain along the inner edge of the shin bone that comes on with exercise such as running or jumping.
Read more→Achilles tendinopathy (Achilles tendonitis, Achilles tendinitis)
Achilles tendinopathy is pain, stiffness and reduced strength in the Achilles tendon at the back of the ankle.
Read more→Calf strain (pulled calf, calf tear)
A calf strain is an injury where fibres in the calf muscles (gastrocnemius or soleus) are overstretched or torn.
Read more→Bone stress injury of the shin (tibial stress fracture) (tibial stress fracture, tibial stress reaction)
A tibial bone stress injury is damage to the shin bone caused by repeated loading, such as running, that outpaces the bone's ability to repair.
Read more→Chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS, exertional compartment syndrome)
Chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS) is a condition where exercise causes a build-up of pressure in a muscle compartment of the lower leg, leading to pain and tightness.
Read more→
Getting the right help
Not sure which of these fits? Our team can assess what is going on, explain it clearly and point you to the right care, including referral back to your GP where that is the better route.
Other areas
- Head and jaw pain
- Neck pain
- Shoulder pain
- Elbow pain
- Wrist and hand pain
- Upper back and chest wall pain
- Lower back pain
- Hip, groin and pelvic pain
- Knee pain
- Ankle and foot pain
- Pain in pregnancy and after birth
- Aches and pains in children and young people
This page is general information, not a diagnosis. If you are worried about your symptoms, speak to your GP or call NHS 111.
