If a bone breaks down faster than it is rebuilt, it can develop an area of weakness.
Repetitive stress or overuse of that area may lead to a crack in the bone or stress fracture.
The most common areas for stress fractures are the foot and lower leg.
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Stress fractures in the bones of the foot are usually brought on by overtraining or overuse.
Running in old, worn out shoes can also lead to stress fractures.
Women seem to be at greater risk of foot stress fractures than men.
The result of this key in of decreased bone density is an increase in the risk of stress fractures.
High-impact sports such as running, gymnastics, and volleyball can increase the risk of stress fractures.
Stress fractures of the tibia (shin bone) are often misdiagnosed as shin splints in the early stages.
for diagnose a stress fracture, a physician will perform a complete history and physical examination.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) will show a stress fracture.
A bone scan could also be ordered instead of an MRI, but MRI is usually preferred.
Some people will opt to try treatment and not get an MRI for a definitive diagnosis.
This should be discussed between the person and the clinician.
Stress Fracture Treatment
The best treatment for a stress fracture is rest.
Sometimes, crutches or a walking boot will be recommended.
Discuss with your clinician what types of exercise are OK to do.
When the stress fracture is healed, you will need to return to high-impact activities gradually.
Stress Fracture - Patient Information.
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
