Basketball started this week and my shins hurt. i assume it is shin splints. what is the best way to care for painful shins?

Rest, ice, NSAIDs: Relative rest, ice and NSAIDs may work. It may likely be that the rapid acceleration and overall intensity of your recent early season workouts pushed your shins "over the edge." Backing off the intensity, and potentially better shoes may also help. If no improvement in 1-2 weeks, seek evaluation by an orthopaedic surgeon.

Yes: Sudden intense activity can cause build up of lactic acid in muscles and cause pan. Rest, Ice and analgesics usually do the trick.

AntiInflamatory/Rest: Shin Splints are caused by overuse participation in sports like running or playing basketball.It is caused by inflammation of muscles and othersoft tisues of the lower leg and pain is felt in the shin bone(Tibia)in the front part of lower leg.The best way to deal with it is do less intensive exercise like running for Basketball and over the counter or prescription strength Anti inflammatory meds