Stress fracture
Stress Fractures[edit | edit source]
Stress fractures are small breaks or cracks in the bones, typically resulting from repeated pressure or stress on the bone over time. Unlike acute fractures that occur due to a single, severe impact, stress fractures develop gradually as a result of overuse and repetitive force. They are common in weight-bearing bones of the lower leg and foot, often affecting athletes and individuals engaged in high-impact sports.
Causes[edit | edit source]
Stress fractures are primarily caused by:
- Repetitive activity
- Increased physical activity without proper conditioning
- Impact on hard surfaces
- Poor equipment, such as worn-out shoes
Risk Factors[edit | edit source]
Factors that increase the risk of stress fractures include:
- Participation in high-impact sports like running, basketball, and gymnastics
- Conditions such as osteoporosis that weaken bones
- A sudden increase in physical activity intensity or duration
- Improper footwear
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
Symptoms of a stress fracture include:
- Pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest
- Swelling at the site of the fracture
- Tenderness to touch at the fracture site
- Possible bruising
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis of a stress fracture involves:
- Medical history and physical examination
- Imaging tests such as X-rays, although early stress fractures may not always be visible. MRI or bone scan may be recommended for a more accurate diagnosis.
[[File:Occult stress fracture of the talus on 1 month follow-up T1 MRI.jpg|thumb|Occult stress fracture of the talus on 1 month follow-up T1 MRI]]
Treatment[edit | edit source]
The primary treatment for stress fractures is rest and avoidance of the activity that caused the injury. Additional treatments include:
- Protective footwear or braces
- Physical therapy to strengthen surrounding muscles
- Gradual return to activity following a period of rest
Prevention[edit | edit source]
Prevention strategies for stress fractures include:
- Gradually increasing the intensity and duration of physical activity
- Using appropriate and well-fitting footwear
- Cross-training to avoid repetitive stress on one area of the body
- Ensuring adequate nutrition, particularly calcium and vitamin D intake
See Also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. (2021). Stress Fractures.
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. (2020). Stress Fractures.
External Links[edit | edit source]
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Stress Fractures
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases: Stress Fractures
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