Final answer:
Shin splints and stress fractures are both lower leg injuries, but have different causes and characteristics. Shin splints result from overuse or repetitive activities, while stress fractures are tiny breaks in the bone caused by repetitive mechanical stress. Treatment options vary for each injury.
Step-by-step explanation:
Shin splints and stress fractures are both injuries that can occur in the lower legs, but they are caused by different factors and have different characteristics.
Shin splints typically result from overuse or repetitive activities that put stress on the lower leg muscles and shin bone. They cause pain and tenderness along the inner side of the shin bone. Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (R.I.C.E.) therapy are commonly used to treat shin splints.
Stress fractures are tiny breaks in the bone caused by repetitive mechanical stress. They are commonly seen in athletes or individuals who engage in activities that involve repetitive impact, such as running or jumping. Stress fractures typically cause localized pain over the affected bone and may require immobilization or casting for proper healing.