Stress Fractures – Less Fun Than You Think!

The warm summer days and nights are a distant memory and the cold Wintery nights are well and truly upon us. Some of us will be dreaming of the beach… and our Beach Body!! With this realization in mind, the New Year’s Eve resolutions you made to “get fit”, “get back to playing sport” and “exercise more often” come flooding back. It will also no doubt see a number of us hitting the gym or running trails with the enthusiasm we once held as children. BUT, what happens when our enthusiasm turns to pain?

Stress Fractures are a common injury when people return to activity after a break and are under prepared for action. They are regarded as an overuse injury or occur when the muscles are over tired and no longer able to decrease the shock of repeated impacts. Activities such as running, tennis, basketball or dancing are all common sports with a high degree of “stress fractures.” Most stress fractures occur in the weight bearing bones of the foot and the lower leg and occur when you increase your high impact activity by frequency, duration and intensity, or possibly a change in playing surface. In all of these activities, the repeated stress of the foot striking the ground can cause problems, possibly leading to a fracture.

Doing too much too soon without adequate preparation is a common cause of these types of injuries.

 

 

So what does a Stress Fracture feel like?

Generally people report a slow onset of pain with weight bearing activities, which eases with rest, but then becomes increasingly painful with day to day activities. There may be swelling around the affected area as well as tenderness to touch.

Stress fractures are best treated with rest. Avoiding the activity which has caused the over-use is essential and if bad enough, weight bearing should be avoided at all times – crutches or a moon boot may be prescribed by your therapist. Icing the injured area may help as well as ensuring you have good and supportive shoes.

During this “rest” period it is important to speak with your health care practitioner so they can advise you on your training methods to prevent a re-occurrence. They can advise you on alternating your activities to prevent overuse from occurring, such as cross-training. They will also be able to advise you when it’s safe to progress your level of activity as well as give you strengthening tips to help prevent muscle fatigue or injury.

 

 

It is important to remember that it may not be an increase in activity or an overuse injury. Conditions such as Osteoporosis, which weaken the bone, may also lead to stress fractures.  If there is a family history of Osteoporosis, it is important to ensure your diet is adequate in providing you with the calcium you need for strong healthy bones. Consulting your dietitian can help address this issue.

Remember if pain or swelling returns, stop your activity and seek your health care practitioner’s advice.

Stay healthy, train hard and enjoy your running.

Dr. Gary Israelsohn - Osteopath

Equilibrium Sports and Spinal Clinic

1438 High St Glen Iris

Ph: (03) 9500 2030

www.equilibriumsas.com.au