They aren’t caused by emotional stress but stress fractures are a classic overuse injury that can nag at athletes throughout their season.

What is a Stress Fracture?
Tiny cracks in a bone that typically result from repetitive forces (often jumping or running) are classified as “stress fractures.” Unlike a broken bone that usually occurs from an isolated event, stress fractures develop over time — making their onset and diagnosis more complicated.

Signs and Symptoms
The most common sites for stress fractures are bones in the lower leg and foot. Common symptoms include increased pain in a specific area that may or may not be accompanied by swelling. The specific location is typically painful to the touch; pain often increases with activity and gets worse over time. Since these tiny breaks often can’t be seen on an x-ray, athletes need to pay close attention to their symptoms. Bone scans can usually identify them but are not always ordered by the doctor.

Risk Factors & Treatment
Runners and track athletes often suffer stress fractures but the injury can also affect other types of athletes, especially ones with low bone density, flat feet or high arches. Intense and unbalanced workout regimens can also contribute to these overuse type injuries, so proper training is a must! Click here for a comprehensive list of risk factors.

The only effective treatment is rest and immobilization – you can’t walk off this injury. Crutches or a boot may be necessary while ice and pain relievers will help with pain and swelling.

How to Avoid Them
Be proactive. Cross-train, wear proper footwear and keep bones strong by getting plenty of calcium.