Shin Splints Massage

A Shin Splints Massage is a therapeutic manual technique aimed at relieving pain, muscle tightness, and dysfunction commonly experienced with medial tibial stress syndrome (shin splints). It focuses on the muscles and connective tissues along and around the tibia, promoting healing, improving flexibility, and reducing recurrence in active populations.​

Signs & Symptoms

• Aching or sharp pain along the inner edge of the shin (tibia)

• Pain that increases with running, jumping, or prolonged standing

• Tenderness and mild swelling in the lower leg, particularly after exercise

• Muscle tightness in the calves, tibialis anterior, or posterior

• Reduced leg flexibility and possible weakness

• Sometimes redness or mild heat over the area.​

Contraindications

• Avoid deep tissue massage directly over the inflamed area of the tibia to prevent periostitis or further injury​

• Do not treat if there is severe swelling, suspected stress fracture, open wounds, acute infection, or unremitting pain

• Use caution with clients on blood thinners, those with vascular disorders, or uncontrolled diabetes

• If pain is severe or not improving, refer out for full medical assessment.​

Assessment

• Comprehensive history to determine onset, duration, activity level, and aggravating factors

• Palpation to check for muscle tightness, myofascial adhesions, trigger points, and tenderness along the medial tibia

• Assess gait and biomechanical patterns for overpronation, poor footwear, or training errors

• Test calf and anterior compartment strength, flexibility, and swelling

• Rule out stress fractures, tendonitis, or compartment syndrome if pain is severe or persistent.​

Treatment

• Begin with gentle effleurage and light stroking to warm and relax the muscles

• Progress to deep tissue massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and friction techniques aimed at calf muscles, tibialis anterior, and soft tissue around (but not over) the tibia​

• Sports massage techniques focus on releasing muscle tension, promoting circulation, and restoring flexibility. The massage therapist should avoid intense pressure directly over periosteum​

• Manual stretching and gentle passive movement can support recovery

• Treatment frequency may be daily to weekly based on recovery stage and tolerance.​

Self Care

• Rest and activity modification. The client should avoid aggravating physical activity during recovery.

• Ice application and compression to reduce inflammation after exercise

• Regular self-massage and stretching for calves, tibialis anterior, and peroneals​

• Gradual reintroduction of exercise under guidance, focusing on proper gait and footwear

• Strengthening exercises for foot, ankle, and leg muscles to reduce recurrence

• Hydration, nutrition, and cross-training can support long-term recovery