Shin splints can usually be treated by the patient with self-care and rest. The acronym R.I.C.E. represents a group of treatments that may be used initially:

• Rest. For shin splints, this means relative rest. Avoid activities that cause pain, swelling or discomfort, but do not avoid all physical activity. This typically calls for a decrease in intensity, duration and frequency of high-impact exercise (e.g., running, basketball, tennis). When running, it is best to avoid hills and hard surfaces such as concrete. Shortening the running stride will reduce impact. The degree to cut back depends on the severity of the pain. In some cases, patients may need to switch to low-impact exercise therapy (e.g., swimming, bicycling, running in water). If the pain is severe enough to cause a limp, patients may need to use crutches until they can walk normally without pain. When resuming activities, patients are typically encouraged to ease back into them gradually.
  
  
• Ice. Apply an ice pack to the site of the pain for 15 minutes several times a day. This is important for several days following the initial pain and for as long as swelling persists. The cold helps to reduce pain, swelling and inflammation. For more information, see Cryotherapy.
  
  
• Compression. Compress the painful area with an elastic bandage or compression sleeve. This will help control swelling and ease the pain. Care needs be taken when using an elastic bandage not to wrap it too tightly as this may hinder circulation. The bandage needs to be loosened if the pain increases, the area becomes numb, or swelling occurs below the wrapped area.
  
  
• Elevation. Elevate the shin above the level of the heart, especially at night. This allows gravity to help reduce swelling by draining excess fluid.

In many cases, over-the-counter analgesics such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be taken to ease the pain. Patients are advised to speak with their physician before taking medication.

Physical therapy may help treat shin splints. Typically, this involves stretching the calf muscles and Achilles tendon to lengthen them. The muscles around the shin may also be subjected to strengthening exercises. The structure and alignment of the pelvis, spine and lower extremities may be checked for imbalances or gait disturbances, such as a leg length discrepancy. The physical therapist or physician may recommend modalities such as electrical therapy or ultrasound therapy.

Several complementary and alternative pain therapies may be used to ease the pain of shin splints. Massage therapy, with or without ice, often helps. Pressure applied to the trigger points (areas that are particularly sensitive to touch) may also provide relief. Some research suggests that acupuncture may provide relief.

For shin splints not resolved by other treatments, two osteoporosis medications have been used as experimental treatments: an oral bisphosphonate or injections of a bone-building hormone called calcitonin.  However, further research is needed to determine whether they have a place in the treatment of shin splints.