Understanding Shin Pain: Is It a Stress Fracture or Shin Splints?
I’m an 18-year-old who stands 5’4” tall and weighs 140 pounds. Lately, I've stepped up my running regimen considerably. I’ve dealt with persistent discomfort in my shins for some time now, always chalking it up to shin splints. However, I have flat feet, which I know can influence how my legs handle the impact of running. Currently, my shins are sensitive when pressed, but they don’t hurt while I walk or rest. Occasionally, I notice a slight discomfort during my runs, though it only bothers me if I focus on it. The pain is generally widespread, yet there's a specific spot—approximately one inch wide—on my shin that feels particularly sharp. To be honest, I prefer not to visit a healthcare professional unless I’m convinced that my situation is serious. Notably, my right leg seems to suffer more than the left, which also corresponds with having a lower arch on that side.
Answers (1)
2/12/2026, 3:30:36 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing some significant discomfort in your shins after increasing your running routine, especially considering your flat feet and the sharp pain in a specific spot. It's important to distinguish between shin splints and potential stress fractures, as both conditions can arise from overuse, but they require different approaches to treatment.
Explanation:
Shin splints (medial tibial stress syndrome) typically present as a general ache or pain along the shin bone (tibia), usually caused by overuse or improper footwear. They often feel better with rest. Stress fractures, on the other hand, are small cracks in the bone caused by repetitive force or overuse, leading to localized pain that tends to worsen with activity and can be more severe when pressure is applied.
Given your description of sharp pain in a specific location and sensitivity to touch, it's worth being cautious. The vulnerability of your right leg, which has a lower arch, might also contribute to your discomfort.
Next Steps:
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Rest and Reduce Activity: Take a break from high-impact activities like running for at least a week. Substitute with low-impact exercises, such as swimming or cycling, to maintain your fitness without exacerbating the pain.
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Ice Therapy: Apply ice to the painful area for 15-20 minutes every few hours to help reduce inflammation and discomfort. Always wrap ice in a cloth to protect your skin.
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Evaluate Footwear: Ensure you're wearing supportive shoes suited for your flat feet. Consider visiting a store that specializes in running shoes, where staff can assess your foot type and recommend appropriate footwear.
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Foot Exercises and Orthotics: Begin gentle stretching and strengthening exercises for your lower legs. Orthotic inserts can also provide additional support if you have flat feet, helping to distribute the impact more evenly.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your pain levels and any changes over the next week. If the sharp pain persists, worsens, or if you begin experiencing severe symptoms, consider reassessing the need for professional evaluation.
Stay patient and attentive to your body, and remember that recovery is vital to avoid further injury. If you have any additional questions or need further information, feel free to ask!
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