These are small cracks that occur in the bone as a result of repeated and excessive loading. Stress fractures are usually seen in athletes and people who do intense physical activity. The constant pressure of the body weight on the same area causes the bone to weaken over time and cracks to form. It is most commonly seen in the foot bones and legs. Treatment requires rest and sometimes physical therapy. If not treated early, more …
These are small cracks that occur in the bone as a result of repetitive and excessive loading. Stress fracture It is usually seen in athletes and people who do intense physical activity. The constant pressure of the body weight on the same area causes the bone to weaken over time and cracks to form. It is most commonly seen in the foot bones and legs. Treatment requires rest and sometimes physical therapy. If not treated early, it can lead to more serious fractures.
What are the symptoms of a stress fracture?
A feeling of pain that is especially noticeable during or after activity. It usually starts off mild and gets worse over time. There may be swelling or tenderness in the affected area. This is usually in the top of the foot, leg, hip, or knee area. Stress fracture Increased sensitivity to touch may be noticed in the affected area.
Functional losses such as difficulty in movement, limitation of activities or limping while walking are experienced. In people experiencing this condition, pain may not go away despite rest and the healing process is prolonged. These symptoms occur after excessive sports activities or long-term strain.
What Causes a Stress Fracture?
Excessive load on bones of athletes or people who do long-term physical activity stress fracture Conditions that reduce bone density, such as osteoporosis, cause bones to become brittle. When the body is not given enough time to recover, bones do not heal, increasing the risk of fractures.
Using inappropriate shoes or sports equipment may be the cause. Biomechanical problems such as flat feet increase the risk by causing excessive load on certain points of the bones. Calcium and vitamin D deficiency negatively affects bone health and increases fragility. Suddenly increasing the level of intense training or activity, stress fracture may cause it to happen.
How Is a Stress Fracture Diagnosed?
In the first stage, the doctor listens to the patient's sports and physical activity history and complaints. Especially severe or recurring pain may suggest the presence of a fracture. The doctor examines the area where the pain is located and checks for tenderness and swelling. Applying pressure to certain points stress fracture It tries to determine whether or not there is a fracture. It may not be visible on X-ray images at first. However, over time, as the bone begins to heal, these fractures become visible on X-ray.
MRI is one of the most effective imaging methods for diagnosing fractures. It shows the damage in bones and soft tissues in detail. Bone scintigraphy, stress fracture It is another imaging method used in the detection of bone abnormalities in the early stages. With these methods, fractures can be diagnosed quickly and treatment can be started.
What are the Treatment Methods for Stress Fractures?
The most basic treatment method is to reduce the stress on the bone. Reducing activity level and avoiding strenuous movements will speed up the healing process. Regular ice application to the affected area is recommended to reduce swelling and pain. Casts, splints or walking aids may be used to reduce the load on the fractured area.
Physical therapy programs are applied to strengthen muscles and increase flexibility. Anti-inflammatory drugs can be used under the supervision of a doctor to reduce pain. Rarely, nonhealing or serious stress fracture may require surgical intervention. Surgery stabilizes the fractured area and provides healing. The treatment process varies depending on the person, the size and location of the fracture.
