Overview
The term “shin splints” refers to pain along or just behind the shinbone (tibia). Medically know as medial tibial stress syndrome, shin spings occur during physical activity and result from too much force being placed on your shinbone and connective tissues that attach your muscles to the bone. Shin splints are common in runners and in those who participate in activities with sudden stops and starts, such as basketball, soccer, or tennis.
Causes
Overload on the shinbone and the connective tissues that attach the muscles to the bone
Running downhill
Running on a slanted or tilted surface
Running in worn-out footwear
Engaging in sports with frequent starts and stops
Training erros
Symptoms
Tenderness, soreness, or pain along the inner part the the lower leg
Mild swelling in the lower leg
Diagnosis
Physical examination and medical history consultation
X-rays
Treatments
Rest
Application of ice
Elevation
OTC pain reliever
Proper shoes
Orthotics
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/shin-splints/DS00271