Physical Therapy for Stress Fractures

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Stress fractures in the lower extremity are a common injury for athletes participating in high-intensity load-bearing activities, such as running and aerobic exercise. Lower extremity stress fractures account for 80-90% of all stress fracture injuries. For runners, stress fractures account for 16% of all injuries. The most common stress fractures in runners are as follows: tarsal navicular, metatarsals, femur, and pelvis. Stress fractures and reactions result from overload, when microfractures from the overuse exceed the rate that the bone repairs itself. Early diagnosis is important to prevent the stress fractures from developing into larger fractures.

Stress Fracture Symptoms

Sharp pain of bone.
Pain as you run that becomes more painful as you continue.
Pain can be pinpointed to one area.
Pain improves with rest.

Risk Factors for Stress Fractures in Runners

Rapid increase in mileage changes (> 10% increase per week).
Surface: running on hard surfaces such as concrete leads to an increased risk of stress fractures.
Form: runners who are heel-strikers have an increased risk of developing tibial stress fractures.

Stress Fracture Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based on patient history, clinical examination, and special tests for stress fractures. Stress fractures typically present with an insidious onset that is worse at the end of activity and has a center point of tenderness.

MRI is the current gold standard for imaging stress fractures, regardless of their location. This is due to MRI’s ability to display both bone edema and soft tissue structures. One of the first signs of a stress fracture is bony edema, which is not visible on typical radiographic imaging.

Stress Fracture Treatment

Ice and anti-inflammatory medications to alleviate symptoms.
Cross training, non-weight bearing activities such as biking, swimming, or aqua jogging.
Physical therapy following healing of stress fracture to return to sport.

Physical Therapy for Stress Fractures in Queensbury & Saratoga

Physical therapy is not just about managing symptoms, it’s about helping individuals safely return to physical activity. By working closely with a skilled physical therapist and adhering to a personalized treatment plan, individuals can regain strength and rebound from a stress fracture in a safe progressed manner. If you or someone you know has suffered a stress fracture, consider the transformative potential of Physical Therapy.

To schedule a physical therapy appointment for the treatment of a stress fracture in Malta, Saratoga Springs, Delmar or Queensbury NY, please call (518) 289-5242.

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