Understanding Shin Splints in Soccer Players

Published October 15, 2025

Understanding Shin Splints in Soccer Players

BY: CAO | Sports Medicine Blog

 

(Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome)

If you play soccer and you’ve ever gotten that nagging pain along your shin during or after practice, you may be dealing with shin splints — also called medial tibial stress syndrome. It’s one of the most common overuse injuries in young athletes.

 

What Are Shin Splints & Why They Happen

The “shin” refers to the tibia, the larger bone in your lower leg. Shin splints involve irritation and inflammation of the muscles, tendons, and tissues around that bone. In soccer, repeated sprinting, cutting, kicking, and stopping/starting all stress the lower leg. When your muscles and bones can’t handle the load, micro-injury and pain develop.

Common causes include:

  • Quickly increasing practice intensity or volume
  • Hard surfaces or uneven fields
  • Poor form or muscle imbalances (weak calves, tight muscles)
  • Improper or worn-out footwear
  • Flat feet or abnormal foot mechanics

 

Symptoms to Watch For

  • Dull, aching pain along the inner part of the shin during or after activity
  • Tenderness or mild swelling
  • Pain that improves with rest but returns during play
  • Sharp or persistent pain that could indicate a stress fracture (see a doctor)

 

How to Treat Shin Splints

  1. Rest & Modify Activity

Take a break from high-impact drills. Stay active with swimming or cycling to reduce stress on the shins.

  1. R.I.C.E. Method

Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation — these steps help decrease inflammation and pain.

  1. Stretch & Strengthen

Stretch your calves, hamstrings, and Achilles tendon. Strengthen your tibialis anterior, calves, and core to stabilize your legs.

  1. Check Footwear & Mechanics

Worn or unsupportive shoes can worsen symptoms. Make sure cleats fit well and have adequate support. Orthotics may help correct flat feet or alignment issues.

  1. Gradual Return to Play

Ease back into running on soft surfaces. Increase training intensity slowly and stop if pain returns.

 

When to See an Orthopaedic Specialist

If shin pain lasts more than two weeks, gets worse, or keeps you from playing, schedule a visit with an orthopaedic provider. Imaging like X-rays or MRIs can help rule out stress fractures. A physical therapist or sports medicine expert can design a recovery plan that strengthens your legs and prevents re-injury.

 

Preventing Shin Splints

  • Warm up and stretch before practice
  • Build training volume gradually
  • Mix up training surfaces
  • Cross-train to reduce repetitive stress
  • Strengthen lower legs and core
  • Address early pain before it worsens

 

Final Thoughts

Shin splints are common, but they don’t have to keep you off the field. With the right care, recovery, and prevention, most athletes return to play stronger than before. If pain persists or affects your performance, contact the orthopaedic team at CFAOrtho.com for guidance and treatment.

 

Need help with injury prevention, recovery plans, or rehab? Contact your local CAO office to schedule a consultation. For urgent orthopaedic injuries call VantaStat at 844-VANTA365!

 

CAO – Keeping young athletes strong, safe, and ready to play.