This article is from the Aerobics Fitness FAQ, by oaktree@shell.urjet.net (Robles) with numerous contributions by others.
Shin splints are a common name for pain felt in the anterior
portion of the calf, which can be due to a variety of causes, from
muscle imbalances to something as serious as a compartment syndrome.
Generally, treatment for shin splints involves RICE, strengthening
exercises for all of the muscles surrounding the ankle joint, and
flexibility exercises.
Compartment syndromes are a much less common, but more serious
problem, where one of the compartments between muscles which
contains blood vessels and/or nerves becomes swollen, compressing
the blood vessels and/or nerves. This can lead to pain, swelling,
and discomfort, and in severe situations can be an emergency
situation requiring surgical intervention.
 
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