How to prepare for a video visit about Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome)

Audience: pediatric

Shin splints, also called Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome, cause pain along the inner part of the lower leg. This condition often happens in children and teens who do a lot of running or jumping. It is usually caused by overuse or repetitive stress on the shinbone and nearby muscles. A video visit with a healthcare provider can help understand the symptoms and discuss ways to ease the pain. During the visit, the provider may ask about your child's activities, pain level, and any swelling or bruising. They may also suggest rest, stretching, or changes in exercise. While telemedicine can guide care and suggest when to seek more help, it cannot replace a full physical exam or imaging tests if needed. Preparing for the visit by gathering information and having a quiet space will help make the appointment effective. If your child has severe pain, swelling, numbness, or difficulty walking, seek urgent in-person care.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe or worsening pain that stops your child from walking or standing — seek urgent in-person care.
• Swelling, redness, or bruising around the shin — get medical evaluation promptly.
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the foot or leg — this requires immediate medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of shin pain and activity history.
• Guidance on home care, rest, and pain relief strategies.
• Advice on when to seek in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical tests that require hands-on examination.
• Ordering or interpreting imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs.
• Treating severe injuries or complications that need urgent care.

What are Shin Splints?

Shin splints cause pain along the inner edge of the shinbone (tibia). They often happen after running, jumping, or other activities that put repeated stress on the lower legs. The pain is usually dull and worsens with activity. Shin splints are common in growing children and teens who are active in sports.

What to Expect During Your Video Visit

Your healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms, such as when the pain started, what makes it better or worse, and how it affects daily activities. They may ask to see the legs on camera to check for swelling or redness. The provider may guide you through simple movements to assess pain and function. Based on this, they will discuss possible causes and suggest ways to manage symptoms.

How to Prepare for the Video Visit

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Managing Shin Splints at Home

Treatment often includes rest or reducing activities that cause pain. Applying ice to the shin for 15-20 minutes several times a day may help. Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can support recovery. Wearing proper footwear and avoiding hard surfaces for running may prevent worsening. Your provider may share specific advice based on your child's needs.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your child has severe pain, swelling, bruising, numbness, or difficulty walking, they need to see a healthcare provider in person. These signs may indicate a more serious injury such as a stress fracture or compartment syndrome. Also, if symptoms do not improve with home care, follow up with your provider.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit area for the video call.
• Have your child's recent activity details ready (sports, exercise).
• Note the start date and pattern of the shin pain.
• Prepare to show the affected leg on camera.
• List any treatments or medicines already used.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the provider's advice on rest and activity modification.
• Use ice packs as recommended to reduce pain and swelling.
• Perform any suggested stretching or strengthening exercises.
• Monitor symptoms and note any changes or new concerns.
• Schedule follow-up if symptoms persist or worsen.

FAQs

What causes shin splints in children?

Shin splints often result from repetitive stress on the shinbone and surrounding muscles during activities like running or jumping. Growing bones and muscles can be more sensitive to this stress.

Can shin splints heal on their own?

Yes, with rest and proper care, shin splints often improve over time. Avoiding activities that cause pain and following home treatment usually helps recovery.

When should I worry about my child's shin pain?

If the pain is severe, causes limping, or is accompanied by swelling, bruising, numbness, or weakness, seek medical care promptly. These could be signs of a more serious problem.

How can I prevent shin splints?

Encourage your child to warm up before exercise, wear supportive shoes, avoid sudden increases in activity, and run on softer surfaces when possible.

Sources

1. MedlinePlus: Shin Splints — U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. MedlinePlus: Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome — U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
3. Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome) — Mayo Clinic.
4. Sports Injuries in Children and Adolescents — American Academy of Pediatrics.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or urgent concerns, seek immediate medical attention.