Learn about the tibia, common conditions that affect this bone, and how they impact health.
The tibia, also known as the shin bone, is one of the leg bones and is the second longest bone in the body after the thigh bone. It pairs with the shorter fibula and is connected by an interosseous membrane. The tibia has several important functions including weight bearing, muscle attachment, and maintaining stability of the knee and ankle joints. Common tibia conditions include tibia fractures, Osgood-Schlatter disease, Blount disease, Paget's disease, osteoporosis, and tibial stress syndrome (commonly known as shin splints). These conditions can cause leg pain, difficulty walking, or fractures. Maintaining tibia health involves balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and avoiding excessive stress. If you experience persistent pain or severe injury, it is advisable to seek medical attention.