Stress Fracture – Lower Leg
There are two bones in the leg, one small and one large, the larger one is called tibia and the smaller one fibula. Stress fracture in the lower leg generally affects the tibia as it is the bone that bears major part of body weight. However, stress fracture may occur in any of the two bones. Stress fracture generally occurs just above the ankle, on the inner side, on tibia.
The major symptom of stress fracture is pain, especially just above the ankle. The pain usually intensifies due to long distance running. This is followed by swelling and tenderness at the point where fracture has occurred. Pain is also felt when the shin is pressed. The symptoms are not seen in an X-ray taken immediately after an injury, and may only be seen after 4-5 weeks. The major indication of a fracture seen on X-ray is growth of bone, where the injury has started healing.
The major cause of stress fracture is overloading of the bones due to constant muscle contractions such as in case of continuous running. It may also result due to alteration in stress distribution when an athlete continues to run even if the muscles are fatigued and demand rest. In such cases the muscles are no longer able to bear the stress, thus transferring some of it to the bones. The bones may also get stressed and result in fracture in case the running surface is suddenly changed. For instance, an athlete not used to running on grass, may feel undue pressure on the bones, leading to stress fracture. Apart from this, stress fracture may develop over a period of time, where the bones have suffered small but repeated injuries, thus having a cumulative effect.
In case of stress fracture an athlete is advised complete rest for about 6-8 weeks. The doctor would generally take repeat X-rays to determine if the bone has healed and may recommend moderate exercises to restore movement and keep the athlete fit. An athlete would be allowed to resume normal training only when the bone has completely healed. The doctor would also look at the underlying cause of the fracture and recommend preventive measures.
Apart from treatment an athlete must maintain a strict fitness regime to strengthen the bones and muscles. This may include moderate exercises such as running and swimming, coupled with strenuous workout including weight training. Other than this, an athlete must also maintain a healthy diet, aimed at building strong muscles and bones.
Written by admin on March 29, 2012 under Sports Medicine.
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