What's the scenario?

“I don’t know what’s going on with my legs,” 45-year-old Alison says to pharmacy technician Vicky as she approaches the counter. “I’m wondering if I need insoles for my new running shoes. I’ve taken up the ‘Couch to 5K’ challenge, but my legs are really hurting. It’s definitely more pain than gain at the moment.”

“Oh no,” replies Vicky. “That doesn’t sound good. Couch to 5K is a great idea, but the last thing you need is to be in pain when you’re trying to keep motivated. Where does it hurt?”

Alison bends down and indicates the front of her legs, below the knees. “It’s here, on my shins, on both legs,” she says, “It’s got worse over the past few days and now they throb and ache. I think they’re a bit swollen, too.”