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Stress fractures are quite common among athletes, constituting nearly 20% of all sports injuries. Weight-bearing limbs are more prone to stress fractures, with the tibia, tarsal navicular, and metatarsals being the most commonly affected areas1. These fractures may seem small, but they cause significant impact, often disrupting athletes' lives during critical periods. Stress fractures are overuse injuries that develop when physical activities impose too much pressure on a bone, leading to small cracks. Proper management of hairline stress fracture is crucial to prevent complications and ensure a smooth recovery. This blog highlights the importance of effectively managing these stress fractures with rest and activity modifications.
Synopsis
What is a Stress Fracture?
A stress fracture is a type of bone fracture in which tiny cracks in bones form after putting too much stress on them, caused by repetitive force or overuse. It is commonly seen in athletes and people engaged in high-impact activities. However, they are quite painful but can be managed with rest and activity modifications.
Symptoms Stress Fracture
Its most common symptoms include:
- Localised pain that gets worse during physical activity or improves with rest
- Swelling in that area
- Tenderness
- Bruising around that area
- Pain that becomes severe even while resting
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, immediately consult our orthopaedic specialist for early detection and appropriate management.
Causes of Stress Fracture
Stress fractures occur when bones cannot withstand repetitive movements and do not get enough time to heal and recover between activities. It develops slowly over time, and some of the factors contributing to stress fractures include:
- Sudden increases in training intensity
- Working or training continuously without taking enough rest
- Starting a new physical activity without the right equipment, guidance, or training
- Changing the surface you train
- Using improper footwear
- Poor biomechanics
- Nutritional deficiencies
Risk Factors
Though it's quite common in athletes, certain factors may increase the risk of developing stress fractures. These are:
- High-impact sports like running, basketball, tennis, gymnastics, and dance
- Sudden changes in exercise duration or intensity
- Poor bone density (osteoporosis)
- High-arch feet and flat feet
- Bunions
- Obesity
- Eating Disorders
- Hormonal imbalances
- Vitamin D deficiency
Diagnosis
A prompt diagnosis is essential to preventing the worsening of the injury. The stress fracture is diagnosed through a physical exam. To confirm its diagnosis, imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, or whole-body bone scans are used.
Stress fracture treatment & management
Treating stress fractures is very important, as the bone can break completely if left untreated. Your orthopaedic specialist will recommend the treatment based on the location and severity of the symptoms. Many treatment options are available, like pain management medications, physical therapy, bracing or casting, and surgery (where necessary).
Follow these top 3 tips to manage stress fractures:
1. Rest and Activity Modification: The first step in treatment for stress fractures is to stop the activity immediately that is stressing the bone. Complete rest or activity modification is essential to allow the bone to heal. Gradually modify your activities to reduce impact and stress on the affected bone. This may involve adjusting training intensity, changing footwear, or using orthotics for proper support. Low-impact exercises such as swimming, cycling, and cross-training can help maintain fitness.
2. Take Care of Your Diet: Adequate intake of calcium, vitamin D, and other nutrients is essential to supporting bone health. Also, stay hydrated to support bone remodelling and healing.
3. Caring for Injured Bones: Along with resting, activity modification, and diet, caring for your injured bones is essential. Use a cold pack or ice to ease swelling. Keep doing it for up to 24-48 hours, or as advised. Also, wrap a compression bandage around the fracture to reduce blood flow to the injured area and swelling. Keep the fractured leg or foot raised above the level of the heart by using cushions or pillows while lying down.
Being one of the most common injuries among athletes, stress fractures require patience and management with rest, activity modification, and wound care for proper healing and to prevent long-term complications. It's important to allow sufficient time for healing; rushing to resume activities prematurely can impede recovery and increase the risk of re-injury. Schedule a consultation with an orthopaedic specialist at Manipal Hospitals, Broadway, immediately when you notice any stress fracture symptoms. They will diagnose your injury and appropriately suggest treatments to help you return to your active life sooner.
FAQ's
The healing time after a stress fracture varies depending on the severity and location of the fracture. Generally, it takes 6 weeks to several months to heal completely.
Some low-impact activities may be permissible, but it's crucial to avoid activities that cause pain. It's always best to consult with our orthopaedic specialist for personalised advice before starting any such activity.
Yes, stress fractures can occur in anyone who engages in repetitive activities that stress the bones. Activities such as walking long distances or standing for prolonged periods can also cause stress fractures.
To reduce the risk of stress fractures, gradually increase the exercise intensity, use proper footwear, maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, and listen to your body by allowing adequate rest whenever needed.
If you experience persistent pain during or after activities, swelling, or localised tenderness, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional promptly for evaluation and appropriate management. Schedule an appointment with an orthopaedic specialist at Manipal Hospitals, Broadway through contact no. or visit our website.
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