Shin Splints Treatment for Boise Runners
If you have pain along the front or inner part of your lower leg during or after runs, you might be dealing with what’s commonly called shin splints.
This type of pain is especially common among runners ramping up mileage or returning after a break—but that doesn’t make it normal, and it’s not something you should try to “push through.”
At Fit & Function, we specialize in helping runners in Boise diagnose the true cause of their shin pain and create a targeted, individualized plan to resolve it for good.
Shin Splints Isn’t a Diagnosis—It’s a Category
The term “shin splints” is often used to describe any shin pain, but it can refer to several very different conditions. The most common is Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (MTSS), but it could also be a stress fracture, compartment syndrome, or muscle overuse.
Each of these conditions requires a different treatment approach, which is why accurate diagnosis matters. A rehab plan that works for MTSS could make a stress fracture worse. The key is figuring out exactly what’s going on—then building your recovery around that.
Why Common Fixes Often Fail
Most runners we see have already tried tibialis raises, stretching, foam rolling, or resting. But these tools only help if they match the actual source of the problem.
For example, tibialis raises might be useful for anterior shin pain caused by muscle overuse, but they often aggravate cases of MTSS or bone stress.
Foam rolling and stretching might feel good but don’t address the core issue. And complete rest without a plan usually leads to pain returning once you resume training.
Our goal isn’t to throw random fixes at your shin pain—it’s to treat the specific condition you’re dealing with.
How We Treat Shin Pain in Runners
Your first visit begins with a detailed evaluation. We assess your movement, your running form, and how your training may be contributing to the problem. We also rule out more serious injuries like stress fractures through targeted loading tests and (if needed) referrals for imaging.
From there, we design a plan that balances load management, strength development, and a safe return-to-run strategy. You’ll work one-on-one with a physical therapist who understands runners and tailors every step to your needs.
Your plan may include strength training for your calves, quads, glutes, and core; running form adjustments like increasing cadence to reduce tibial loading; and plyometric progressions to rebuild your body’s tolerance for impact.
If needed, we’ll modify terrain or volume until your symptoms subside—then reintroduce running in a structured way.
Is It Shin Splints or Something More?
Here’s how we help you figure that out.
Runners with MTSS often feel a dull, aching pain along the inside of the shin that worsens during long runs or when increasing mileage. In contrast, stress fractures tend to cause sharp, pinpoint pain that may linger even after activity—and may include swelling or pain with hopping. Compartment syndrome presents differently still, often with burning, tightness, or numbness mid-run.
Understanding these nuances is critical to effective treatment. We take the time to get it right.
Real Recovery Starts with the Right Plan
If you’re dealing with shin splints, the right approach can make all the difference. In our blog post, we break down two real cases: one runner who needed strength and cadence adjustments to recover from MTSS, and another who required complete rest and imaging for a tibial stress fracture.
Same symptoms. Totally different plans.
If you’re unsure which path is right for you, don’t guess. That’s what we’re here for.
Why Runners Choose Fit & Function
We specialize in running injuries. That means we don’t just treat pain—we look at your training, your movement patterns, and your goals. You’ll never get a handout or be told to just stop running. Instead, we build a plan around what matters most to you.
Here’s what sets us apart:
Longer evaluations and one-on-one care every session
A deep understanding of running mechanics and injury patterns
Progressive strength and movement plans tailored to your training level
A collaborative approach to keep you running safely when possible
We don’t take shortcuts, and we don’t rush. Our model is built to go deeper so you can recover smarter.
Ready to Run Without Shin Pain?
If you’re tired of waiting for shin splints to go away on their own—or worried they might become something worse—we can help. Our team works with runners throughout Boise to diagnose, treat, and resolve shin pain with care that actually fits your goals.
See What Other Boise Runners Had To Say
Related Services for Runners
This page is part of our dedicated Running Physical Therapy services. We help runners of all experience levels recover from injury, improve performance, and build long-term resilience.