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" Question I have had a feeling of numbness down my left shin for about one week.  It is not completely numb, but it is fairly constant.  About six weeks ago I rejoined a gym and am going two to three times per week.  I spend a fair amount of time on a cross-training machine,but do not usually run for more than five minutes per session.  I am fairly fit and have not experienced this in the past or numbness in other areas.    Answer There are two possibilities here that spring to mind immediately.   The first is shin splints - significant inflammation of the fascia of the shin - which is often linked to new or unaccustomed exercise, particularly running. The second is sciatica, where the problem is actually in the bottom of the back, but is felt at certain parts of the leg depending on which nerve is affected.   In your case it would be at the spine level known as L4 (the 4th lumbar vertebrae) that is right at the bottom of your spine.  This may be linked to exercises such as sit-ups or any bending motions when under resistance.  Provided you are sensible about how you are training I do not think you need to change anything here, but if this does not settle by itself in the next week or two then just ask your GP to check you out.  Yours sincerely The NetDoctor Medical Team   Other Qs &amp;amp; As How should I look after a shin splint? Shin splint Shin splints Pain on the shins Stabbing pains in the side of the calves Tenderness in one leg calf muscle Could it be shin splints? What are shin splints?   Last updated 15.10.2014 "^^<http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema#string>
<http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/ask-the-expert/aches-and-pains/a2484/numb-shin/>