A stress fracture is a condition that results from the overuse of a bone or muscle. The condition is common in runners and other athletes who put repetitive stress on their bones and muscles.
There are several different types of stress fractures, and each type has different symptoms and treatment options.
Read on to learn everything you need to know about stress fractures, including symptoms, treatment options, and prevention tips.
What is a stress fracture?
A stress fracture is a tiny crack that forms in a bone. These injuries do not involve an acute injury or significant trauma. They are more common in the weight-bearing bones of the body, since this it is where most of the force goes through when walking or performing certain exercises. Stress fractures are visible on x-rays.
What are the symptoms?
Pain is the most common complaint with a stress fracture, but can subside with rest. Here are some other symptoms to look out for:
Swelling, or aching at the site of the fracture
Tenderness when touching the bone
Pain that is worse when hopping on one leg
What can cause a stress fracture?
Stress fractures are typically caused due to overuse. They happen when the muscles become tired due to the exercise and are unable to absorb the shock and forces that go through. When the muscles transfer the force to the bone, which causes the crack to form.
Sports like running and basketball are common sports to see this injury occur. When the fracture happens, normally people are increasing the frequency or training too fast which doesn’t give the body enough chance to recover. Especially if no warm-up or cool-down is performed.
What treatment is available
Treatment for a stress fracture is reducing the load or forces going through the bone. If you have pain when walking you may be recommended to off-load with a boot or crutches.
You should rest enough for the fracture to heal which can take six-eight weeks. Following the rest period, it is important to strengthen the muscles around where the fracture occurred and then to gradually increase the intensity of the exercise that may have caused it.
You should also check your form and technique for the sport or exercise playing which may have been a cause as to why the injury occurred.
Stress fractures are a type of injury that can cause pain in the bones and muscles. They are caused by repetitive stress or overuse, and can often be treated with rest, ice, and elevation. If you think you may have a stress fracture, it is important to see a doctor or other healthcare provider to get a diagnosis and proper treatment.
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