Stress fractures: Overview

Abstract

Fatigue microdamage is an essential element of bone biology. Under certain conditions this may lead to stress fractures. These fractures were first described in 1855 and in later years were diagnosed in almost every bone in the body. Concerning the individual soldier or sportsman, contributing factors are divided into internal and external factors, which are not always well defined or fully understood. Female gender is specifically at risk, which is far higher than that of male gender, both in military conditions and in sport. Diagnosis is based on clinical assessment and on imaging modalities, and though X-rays, bone scan and CT are widely used, MRI is today accepted as the more safe and accurate diagnostic tool. Treatment is essentially conservative, though surgical intervention should be considered in specific location or situations. Prevention can be practiced successfully using a logical approach and available interventions.