This talk of shin shin splints has me wondering if the cause is similar to when you get them from running. Basically they are an overuse injury of doing too much too soon. for instance in marathon you start at base of 25mi / week and then build up over 18 weeks or so to get in shape for a marathon. Generally it is recommended to not increase weekly mileage more than 10% per week.
Is hiking the same. Are shin splints from adding too many miles, or perhaps training in flat areas and then hitting the roller coaster hills of the AT? Does anyone study hiking fitness/training like the do running/cycling and other sports?