Stress fracture is a small break or crack in a bone. A stress fracture can be fully broken (complete) or partially broken (incomplete). The most common sites for stress fractures are the bones in the front of your feet (metatarsals) and the long bone of your lower leg (tibia). a),
CAUSES
A stress fracture is caused by overuse or repetitive exercise, such as running. They happen most commonly when you:
• Increase or start a new activity.
• Use shoes that do not fit you properly or are worn out.
• Exercising on a new surface.
RISK FACTORS
Risk factors for stress fracture include:
• Having osteoporosis. This makes your bones weaker.
• Gender. Stress fractures are more likely to occur in women.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
The most common …show more content…
• X-rays.
• Bone scan.
• MRI.
TREATMENT
Treatment depends on the severity of your stress fracture. Treatment usually involves resting, icing, compression, and elevation (RICE) of the affected area. Treatment may also include:
• Medicines to reduce inflammation.
• A cast or walking shoe.
• Crutches.
• Surgery.
HOME CARE INSTRUCTIONS:
• Take medicines only as directed by your health care provider.
• Rest as directed by your health care provider. Ask your health care provider if you may do alternative exercises, such as swimming or biking, while you are healing.
• Apply ice to the injured area:
• Put ice in a plastic bag.
• Place a towel between your skin and the bag.
• Leave the ice on for 20 minutes, 2–3 times per day.
• Keep all follow-up visits as directed by your health care provider. This is important.
• Use crutches, if directed by your health care provider.
• Wear your cast or walking shoe, if directed by your health care provider.
PREVENTION
• Only wear shoes that:
• Are not worn out.
• Fit well.
• Eat a well-balanced diet that contains D and calcium. This helps keeps your bones strong.
• Be careful when starting a new activity. Allow your body time to