Thanks Zoot...in that case I think it may not be shin splints as although i do get some pain in the shin area, the pain seems to eminate more from the knee moving downwards, with pain goin down the stairs at times and sometimes difficulties extending the lower leg up from the knee with a sharp pain at times when I attempt this, however the shin itself is not tender to the touch.....i realise for some the question may have appeared a bit basic but i do appreciate your thoughts thank you i think perhaps my descriptive powers at times are lacking!.....