Stress fractures: classification and management.
Stress fractures occur as a result of microdamage secondary to repetitive strains. A mechanism for the development of stress fractures involves the accumulation of microdamage, which occurs with multiple subultimate failure loads applied to the bone. Stress fractures may be classified as high or low risk, depending on the grade of the injury. The most common site of injury is the lower extremity. In this article, we review the pathophysiology, etiology, diagnosis, and management of stress fractures, and present treatment guidelines for return to play.
Kaeding
Christopher C
CC
Sports Medicine Center, Department of Orthopaedics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43221, USA. christopher.kaeding@osumc.edu
Najarian
Robert G
RG
D001265:Athletic Injuries / Q000145:classification* / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D003952:Diagnostic Imaging; D015775:Fractures, Stress / Q000145:classification* / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D035002:Lower Extremity / Q000293:injuries / Q000503:physiopathology; D020127:Recovery of Function; D012307:Risk Factors; D013178:Sports Medicine / Q000379:methods