Shin Splints

What is shin pain?

Shin pain is pain on the front of your lower leg below the knee and above the ankle. It can hurt directly over your shinbone (tibia) or over the muscles that are on the inner or outer side of the tibia. Shin pain has often been called shin splints. Shin pain generally occurs from overuse.

How does it occur?

Shin pain generally occurs from overuse. This problem can come from irritation

Part III: What are the Warning Signs and Symptoms?

Although SCA happens unexpectedly, some people may have signs or symptoms, such as: fainting or seizures during exercise; unexplained shortness of breath; dizziness; extreme fatigue; chest pains; or racing heart.

These symptoms can be unclear in athletes, since people often confuse these warning signs with physical exhaustion. SCA can be prevented if the underlying causes can be diagnosed and treated.

Part IV: What are the Risks of Practicing/Playing After Experiencing these Symptoms?

There are risks associated with continuing to practice or play after experiencing these symptoms. When the heart stops,so does the blood that flows to the brain and other vital organs. Death or permanent brain damage can occur in just a few minutes. Most people who experience SCA die from it.

Part V: Removal from Play

Any student-athlete who shows signs or symptoms of SCA must be removed from athletic activity and referred to a

licensed health care profession trained specifically in the treatment of cardiac care. The symptoms can happen before, during or after activity.

Part VI: Return to Play

Before returning to play, the athlete must be evaluated. Clearance to return to play must be in writing. The evaluation must be performed by a licensed medical provider.