Shin Splints Physio Newcastle – Fast Relief & Long-Term Fixes for Runners

At Up N Adam Performance Training & Physiotherapy in Newcastle, we specialise in helping runners overcome shin splints and get back to pain-free training. Whether you’re building towards your first parkrun, training for a marathon, or tackling the trails, shin pain can derail your progress. Our expert physios combine hands-on treatment, objective strength testing, and progressive rehab to not only fix shin splints — but prevent them from coming back.

Book your Shin Splints Physio Appointment today and start your recovery

Why Shin Splints Happen

Shin splints (medial tibial stress syndrome) are one of the most common running injuries we see in Newcastle. They often develop when:

• You suddenly increase running distance, hills, or intensity.

• Calf, foot, or hip muscles aren’t strong enough to absorb impact.

• Footwear or surfaces place extra stress on the tibia.

• Running biomechanics overload the shins with each stride.

Left untreated, shin splints can progress to stress reactions or even stress fractures — which means months off running.

Our Physio Approach to Shin Splints

Step 1: Assessment

• Running history and training load review.

• VALD calf strength testing and asymmetry checks.

• Gait analysis to identify overload patterns.

Step 2: Pain Relief & Load Management

• Hands-on treatment (soft tissue release, dry needling if appropriate).

• Education on modifying training volume without losing fitness.

• Run technique modifications.

Step 3: Progressive Strengthening

• Foot intrinsic activation (arch lifts, short foot drills).

• Calf strengthening (soleus + gastroc focus).

• Hip/glute activation & strength to reduce tibial stress.

Step 4: Return to Running

• Gradual loading program with VALD monitoring.

• Progressive strength program.

• Long-term plan to prevent recurrence.

FAQs – Shin Splints in Runners

How long do shin splints take to heal?

Mild cases can settle in 2–4 weeks, while stubborn or chronic cases may take longer. A structured plan ensures faster recovery.

Can I keep running with shin splints?

Often yes — but with modified loads. We help you adjust intensity and volume to keep fitness while reducing pain.

Do I need scans for shin splints?

Most cases can be diagnosed clinically. If we suspect stress fracture, we may refer for imaging.

Can physio prevent shin splints?

Yes. By strengthening calves, hips, and feet, and by monitoring load with VALD testing, we can reduce recurrence risk dramatically. Run technique is also very important, especially when fatigued.

Final Call to Action

Don’t let shin splints hold you back from running.

We’ll help you recover quickly — and come back stronger.

You can book an appointment with Darren or Newcastle Knights Physiotherapists Katie or Hayd'n at www.upnadamptphysio.com .

Bookings also available on our website for the following services at Up N Adam Performance Training & Physiotherapy:

• Dietitian - Sweat testing, weight-loss or to optimise your training nutrition / fuelling www.nutrientnation.com.au

• VO2 Max testing with Lucas McBeath - to discover more effective ways to train efficiently www.flowitri.com.au

• Strength & Conditioning Programs with Adam Clarke - contact us or book via the website or email us at upnadamptphysio@gmail.com

• Remedial Massage with Katheryn Rodgers - to relieve accumulative muscle tension & keep you training well.

• CycleFit by Physiotherapist Dean Waterman - At Up N Adam, for all your bike fitting solutions www.cyclefitphysio.com