Stress fracture
[stres frak-chur]
/ˈstrɛs ˌfræk.tʃər/
Noun
A stress fracture is a small crack or severe bruising within a bone, often caused by repetitive force or overuse.
A stress fracture is a small crack in a bone caused by repetitive force or overuse, common in runners. It often occurs in weight-bearing bones like the tibia or metatarsals. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and tenderness, worsening with activity. Rest and reduced activity are crucial for healing, typically taking 6-8 weeks. Stress fractures matter to runners as they can derail training and competition plans. Proper footwear, gradual training increases, and cross-training can help prevent them. Real-world examples include athletes missing races due to stress fractures, highlighting the importance of injury prevention and management.
What is a stress fracture and why is it important?
A stress fracture is a small crack in a bone, often caused by repetitive force or overuse, such as running long distances or jumping repeatedly. It is important because if left untreated, it can lead to more severe fractures or chronic pain, impacting mobility and quality of life.
How is a stress fracture measured or diagnosed?
Stress fractures are typically diagnosed through a combination of physical examination and imaging tests. A doctor may look for tenderness and swelling in the affected area. Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or bone scans are often used to confirm the diagnosis, as stress fractures may not always be visible on initial X-rays.
How can I improve, manage, or optimize a stress fracture?
Managing a stress fracture involves several steps:
Rest: Avoid activities that put stress on the affected area to allow the bone to heal.
Ice: Apply ice packs to reduce swelling and pain.
Protective Footwear: Use supportive shoes or orthotics to reduce stress on the fracture.
Gradual Return: Slowly reintroduce physical activity under medical guidance to prevent re-injury.
Nutrition: Ensure adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D to support bone health.