Hey Lizzy!
The pain in shin splints may or may not improve with rest and yes, it is a possible diagnosis. Possibilities that may need to be ruled out are stress fractures, injuries/ trauma, inflammation like periostitis etc, neuromuscular/ vascular issues, micronutrient deficiencies etc. You may consider an evaluation by a primary care physician or an orthopedician for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
Hope this is helpful.
Take care!
severe pain in my left shin bone. I have had many operations on the knee
joint (four replacements ) the last one being six years ago.six weeks ago severe pain started in my shin x-rays and blood tests are negative.I have had a melonoma in my thumb five years ago! Much pain relief and anti inflammatory have no affect Michael