Soldier Sues MoD Over Million-Pound Shin Splint Claim

A British soldier, Desmond Maclean, is pursuing a claim of over £1 million against the Ministry of Defence. He contends that a severe case of shin splints, incurred during a strenuous 5km speed march in October 2011, has left him medically unfit and 'handicapped'. Maclean alleges he was compelled to continue the exercise, carrying a nine-stone mortar, despite voicing his pain to instructors.

The MoD, however, disputes the negligence claim, arguing that the training provided was sufficiently demanding and realistic for military operations. They also assert that a battlefield ambulance was available and that Maclean had previously experienced shin splints, questioning whether the march significantly exacerbated his condition.

Maclean, who was discharged from the Royal Fusiliers in May 2023 after a 12-year career, claims the advice to ignore his pain led to a debilitating condition. The case, involving claims of significant injury and loss of career, is set to proceed to trial unless settled out of court.