Shin splints or Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome is seen with pain over the inside surface of the tibia. This usually happens when the skin and superficial layers of are swollen or inflamed. When one runs or does any kind of movement, the superficial skin or tissue moves over the bone. With repeated movement, the skin and tissue can get irritated and swell up. In some cases, the pain can be severe and may require a lot of rest and recovery for the pain to subside.

As the name suggests, a stress fracture is caused by stress or strain to the body. The strain or stress in this case is seen with excessive running, jumping movements, or walking. When this strain or stress occurs over a bone, the bone may develop a fracture. This fracture can present with minimal pain. When the pain occurs, one should limit activity until the fracture heals.