Shin splints are usually not a serious injury, but it can make it hard to walk or do the things you do every day if you don't take care of them. Rest, ice, compression sleeves, better shoes, or lower-impact exercise can all help reduce the symptoms and risks of the condition. Some of these symptoms can also be signs of other, serious conditions, such as stress fractures in the bones in your leg, so you should keep track of your symptoms - and talk to your doctor before they Shin splints can be treated using the RICE method, which stands for rest: Avoid putting weight on the skin and avoid participating in normal activities. Use an ice pack (you can also use a bag of frozen vegetables if you don't have an infra-red pack) for 15-20 minutes, three times daily, to help reduce swelling.