Possible Shin Splints?

Hi,
I have been getting a cramp like pain from my ankle pretty much to my knee right down the side of my lower leg.

It always tightnes up after 7-10 minutes of continues running, short sharp bursts are ok and the pain doesn't come on at all.

I usally have to stop and stretch by leaning on the outside of my foot and within 2-3 minutes the pain is gone and there is no pain throughout the day.

It is very easy to locate the pain as it is very inflamed and in cramp but after 2-3 minutes it doesn't even hurt to touch

Just wondered if anyone had any ideas?

Might be a superficial peroneal nerve irritation when running. This can be caused by a imbalance in the mechanics of your legs when running. Best get someone to take a look as to have true shin splints you would need to provide us with a good reason as to why you have them!

Shin splints are a fairly common injury. One reason some people get them is because their running technique is bad, or their calves are very weak. Be sure to stretch out before every run, and to focus on a mid-foot strike as opposed to a heel-strike. Many people have proposed barefoot running or running in a minimalistic shoe, like the Vibram FiveFingers. check out this article on the benefits of barefoot running - Health Benifits of Running with Vibram FiveFingers