Stress fractures in runners

Clin Sports Med. 2012 Apr;31(2):291-306. doi: 10.1016/j.csm.2011.09.012.

Abstract

Stress fractures are a relatively common entity in athletes, in particular, runners. Physicians and health care providers should maintain a high index of suspicion for stress fractures in runners presenting with insidious onset of focal bone tenderness associated with recent changes in training intensity or regimen. It is particularly important to recognize “high-risk” fractures, as these are associated with an increased risk of complication. A patient with confirmed radiographic evidence of a high-risk stress fracture should be evaluated by an orthopedic surgeon. Runners may benefit from orthotics, cushioned sneakers, interval training, and vitamin/calcium supplementation as a means of stress fracture prevention.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Athletic Injuries / diagnosis
  • Athletic Injuries / etiology*
  • Athletic Injuries / physiopathology
  • Athletic Injuries / therapy
  • Bone Density
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Diagnostic Imaging
  • Female
  • Fractures, Stress / diagnosis
  • Fractures, Stress / etiology*
  • Fractures, Stress / physiopathology
  • Fractures, Stress / therapy
  • Humans
  • Leg Injuries / diagnosis
  • Leg Injuries / etiology*
  • Leg Injuries / physiopathology
  • Leg Injuries / therapy
  • Male
  • Risk Factors
  • Running / injuries*
  • Sex Factors