Most runners think shin splints mean a splintering or cracking bone — and that misunderstanding is exactly why people panic, rest too long, or rehab the wrong thing.In this episode, I break down what shin splints actually are, what they aren’t, and why understanding this matters before you think about exercises, rest, or a return to running.This isn’t a rehab routine or a quick fix.It’s about getting the right mental model first — because without that, everything else is guesswork.If you’re confused about:• Whether shin splints mean your bone is damaged• Why rest helps but doesn’t always solve the problem• How shin splints differ from stress fractures

Shin splints and stress fractures are often confused — and that confusion leads runners to make the wrong decisions.In this episode, I explain the difference between shin splints and stress fractures using a simple visual analogy, so you can understand:- What shin splints actually are (and what they aren’t)- How stress fractures develop- Why shin splints don’t mean your bone is “splitting”- The key symptom differences runners should pay attention to- How the approach to treatment differs between the twoMost shin pain starts in the tissues around the tibia, not the bone itself. But if load isn’t managed properly, bone damage can occur — which is why knowing the difference matters.This episode is for runners dealing with shin pain who want clarity, not guesswork.⚠️ This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. If pain is worsening, localised, or affecting daily walking, seek professional assessment. // F O L L O WInstagram | @aginjuryrehabTikTok | @aginjuryrehabWebsite | https://www.aginjuryrehab.co.uk/