As runners, we all know how frustrating it is when an injury puts a damper on our training. Two of the most common complaints I hear from athletes are shin pain and discomfort along the lower leg. These symptoms are often tied to either tibial tendonitis or shin splints, but the two conditions can be tricky to tell apart. Both cause pain in the shin area, but understanding the key differences can help you get the right treatment and back to running stronger.
In this post, I’ll break down what tibial tendonitis and shin splints are, how to tell the difference between them, and how working together can help you address these issues and get back on track.
What Are Tibial Tendonitis and Shin Splints?
Shin splints (also known as medial tibial stress syndrome) is a general term for pain that runs along the front or inside of the shinbone. It's typically caused by overuse, especially when there’s a sudden increase in activity or when a runner’s form is off.
Tibial tendonitis, on the other hand, refers specifically to irritation or inflammation of the tibial tendon, which runs along the inside of your shin, down toward the ankle. This condition is often the result of overuse or faulty foot mechanics, like overpronation or flat feet.
While both conditions are linked to overuse, they can feel and behave differently.
How Can You Tell the Difference?
It’s not always easy to distinguish between tibial tendonitis and shin splints since both cause pain in the lower leg, but there are a few key signs to look for:
1. Pain Location
- Shin Splints: The pain with shin splints typically feels like a dull ache along the front or inside of your shin. It can cover a broad area and may feel like it's deep inside the bone.
- Tibial Tendonitis: Pain with tibial tendonitis is more localized and usually happens along the inside of the ankle or the arch of the foot, where the tibial tendon runs. The pain can be sharper and more concentrated in these areas.
2. Pain Type
- Shin Splints: The pain tends to be more general and can increase after prolonged running or high-impact activities. It might start to feel better with rest.
- Tibial Tendonitis: The pain with tibial tendonitis can be more intense and sharp, particularly when you press on the tendon or stand on your toes. You may notice discomfort during daily activities, such as walking or climbing stairs, especially if there is swelling.
3. Foot Mechanics
- Shin Splints: The main culprit here is usually overuse combined with improper form or footwear. This is a common issue when you suddenly ramp up your training or change up your running routine without proper conditioning.
- Tibial Tendonitis: Tibial tendonitis is often tied to issues with your foot structure. If you have flat feet or overpronate (when your foot rolls inward too much), you might be more prone to this condition. Foot mechanics play a big role, so noticing any changes in your gait or how your feet feel during running can be a big clue.
4. Swelling
- Shin Splints: Swelling isn’t always present with shin splints, though the area might be sore to the touch.
- Tibial Tendonitis: If you’re dealing with tibial tendonitis, swelling is more common and may appear near the inside of the ankle or along the tendon itself. You may also notice some stiffness in the ankle joint.
Why It’s Important to Know the Difference
While both conditions require rest and attention, the treatment for tibial tendonitis and shin splints can differ. Getting a proper diagnosis will help you choose the best course of action for your recovery. If you're experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it’s important to address the issue early so it doesn't become a more serious problem down the road.
Whether it’s adjusting your running mechanics, incorporating targeted strength exercises, or working on your flexibility, there’s a way forward for both tibial tendonitis and shin splints.
How I Can Help You
If you’re dealing with pain in your shins, whether it’s from tibial tendonitis or shin splints, I’d love to help you find relief and get back to doing what you love. As a certified running coach and strength training specialist, I offer personalized programs designed to address the specific needs of your body, helping you improve your running form, strength, and overall movement.
Together, we can work on correcting any issues with your mechanics, strengthening your lower body, and building a training plan that’s sustainable and injury-free. If you’re struggling with persistent shin pain, don’t wait—reach out, and let’s start working on a solution that gets you back on track.
Feel free to contact me today, and let’s get you feeling better, stronger, and ready for your next run.
If you're dealing with this type of pain and aren't sure where to turn, let's talk. You don’t have to figure it out on your own—I’m here to guide you through the process, no matter where you're starting from.