Stress Fracture

Stress fractures are small breaks in a bone that occur due to overuse or repeated application of force to a particular bone. It is commonly seen in the bones of the lower limbs in sports persons or military recruits.

Normally, a fracture occurs following an obvious trauma to the bone. However, in the case of stress fracture, an obvious trauma is absent. Normal human bones continuously undergo a process of remodeling. In this process, any small damage that occurs to the bone is replaced by new bone, thus maintaining the normal structure as far as possible. In some people like athletes who undergo rigorous workouts, the bones especially of the lower limbs do not get enough time to rest and repair. This results in the formation of small cracks in bones that are subject to extreme stress, resulting in a stress fracture. The occurrence of a stress fracture may be favored by the presence of predisposing factors like osteoporosis or hormonal issues that may further weaken the bone.

Like other fractures, symptoms of stress fractures include pain, tenderness and swelling in the affected area. The pain increases when additional stress is applied to the part and may be relieved with rest.

Stress fractures are diagnosed using imaging tests like MRI and bone scans. The patient is treated with resting the affected part and painkillers. Surgery may be required in some cases.

What are the Causes of Stress Fractures?

Intense physical activity or improper exercise techniques are the common reasons for the appearance of a stress fracture.

Causes of stress fractures include:

• Rigorous physical activity without adequate intervening rest periods
• Prolonged periods of stress on a particular bone
• Use of improper equipment or lack of good training while exercising or participating in sports
• Excessive weight-bearing activities