Stress Fracture

A stress fracture can occur as a result of prolonged repeated loads on the legs. Long distance runners are susceptible to this type of injury. Symptoms include:
-Pain in the affected bone during exercise.
-Tenderness and swelling at a point on the bone.

A stress fracture in athletes occurs mainly in the lower leg and foot (in the calcaneus, navicular and metatarsal bones). A stress fracture of the 2nd or 3rd metatarsal bone is sometimes called a 'march fracture' because soldiers running in boots often get it!

What are the symptoms of a stress fracture?
-Pain in the forefoot which gets worse during activity
-Pain in the forefoot, aggravated by running
-Tenderness and swelling at a point on the bone

Often an X-ray of the injured bone will not show any sign of fracture until the fracture has actually started to heal (2-3 weeks later). If a stress fracture is suspected then you should rest completely for 6-8 weeks. Crutches can be helpful.

What can the athlete do about it?
-See a sports Doctor for advice.
-Rest for 6 to 8 weeks if a stress fracture is suspected. Use crutches if necessary.

What a Sports Injury Specialist or Doctor can do:
-X-ray the bone.
-Do a bone scan.
-Apply a plaster cast for 2 - 6 weeks if pain is severe. When the athlete does start back running they must ensure the muscles in the lower leg are stretched and supple. Many people start back running and complain of pain because they have let their muscles get hard and tight particularly in the lower leg.