Bone geometry, strength, and muscle size in runners with a history of stress fracture

Stress fracture

Stress fractures are common overuse type injuries, caused by repetitive stresses applied to bone leading to a change within the normal physiological balance and altering key structural properties. These injuries have been well documented within certain groups of the population, as well as related to certain activity types, and pose significant diagnostic and treatment challenges. Complication of stress fractures can vary dependant of the anatomical site and the prognosis of an injury can have wide ranging effects, dependant of lifestyle choices and occupation of the patient. This piece endeavours to outline the most current and evidentiary concepts pertaining to important aspects of stress fractures, from pathophysiology through to prognosis.