What is a Stress Fracture?

A stress fracture is a tiny crack in the bone that is not caused by a blow to the bone. Most stress fractures occur in the lower leg and foot.

A stress fracture develops from continued physical stress on the bone rather than from a single blow to the bone. It can be caused by:

• Increasing the amount or intensity of an activity too quickly (most common)
• Switching to a different playing or running surface
• Wearing improper or old shoes

Stress fractures are more common in females, especially those who play tennis or basketball, dance, run long distances or do gymnastics. Women who have amenorrhea are also more prone to stress fractures. Other risk factors include:

• Reduced bone thickness or density
• Poor muscle strength or flexibility
• Overweight or underweight
• Poor physical condition

Symptoms of stress fractures include:

• Localized pain on the bone
• Pain when pressure is applied directly over the fracture and the area immediately around it
• Pain when putting stress on the affected leg
• Swelling and warmth at the site of the injury

To diagnosis a stress fracture:

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and examine the injured area for localized pain and swelling. Tests may include an X-ray, MRI or bone scan. Because stress fractures are microscopic, they are not usually detectable on an x-ray two weeks after symptoms begin. An MRI uses magnetic and radio waves to show swelling and inflammation inside the bone. A bone scan uses radioactive substances to show the fracture.

To treat a stress fracture:

·        Rest. This is the most important thing you can do. Avoid the activity that caused the fracture and any other activities that cause pain.

·        Take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve pain.

·        Use crutches to keep pressure off the leg, if necessary.

To recover from a stress fracture:

·        Begin with nonweight-bearing activities, such as swimming or bicycling.

·        Add weight-bearing, nonimpact exercise, such as a stair machine.

·        Add low-impact activities, starting with walking.

·        Begin light jogging when there is no pain with fast-paced walking.

·        Return to your full activity level when there is no tenderness in the bone.

To reduce your chances of getting a stress fracture:

• Wear proper footwear.
• Run on a softer surface, such as grass, dirt, or certain outdoor tracks.
• Gradually increase the amount and intensity of an activity.
• Do not overdo any activity.
• Eat a healthy diet, including foods rich in calcium and vitamin D .