Skip to main content

Implications Of An Untreated Stress Fracture

If you have pain in a bone that is unrelenting and associated with exercise or work then you might have suffered a stress fracture. These injuries seem innocent enough but can have significant implications if left alone and not looked at by a professional.

What is a stress fracture?

A fracture (as many of us will know) is a broken bone. A complete fracture splits the bone into two or more pieces whilst a partial fracture doesn’t. However, a stress fracture is a broken bone caused by repetitive and repeated compressive stresses to it. It can occur from a small number of high load repeated stresses and a high number of low load stresses (ie a marine with a heavy backpack running for a few miles versus a distance runner pounding the pavement for over 100 miles a week).

What happens if you leave it untreated?

This all depends on where the fracture is and whether it is in a high or low-risk site. In the worst case scenario, the stress fracture can develop into a full fracture causing displacement of the bone, nonunion (where the bone doesn’t heal properly) or fracture propagation (where the fracture becomes bigger and bigger). These complications are likely to occur at high-risk sites. High-risk sites for a stress fracture include:

Some sites have a low risk of complication and these include:

How should it be managed?

If you or somebody you know suspects you might be suffering from a stress fracture then get in contact with a specialist orthopedic clinic immediately for evaluation. They will assess what the best treatment is, but the general principle is that the sooner treatment is given the better the outcome. They will decide between conservative and surgical treatment for the fracture. Usually conservative is chosen in low-risk fractures in those whose livelihood does not depend on getting better immediately. However, if an individual has a fracture in a high-risk site or their livelihood depends upon being active (ie a highly competitive athlete or a laborer on their feet all day) then it may be decided that surgery is the best option.

Conservative treatment usually consists of:

You Might Also Enjoy...

Why Is PRP Popular Among Athletes?

Why Is PRP Popular Among Athletes?

The demand for effective, natural treatments that can heal injuries and boost performance continues to evolve for athletes at all levels. PRP therapy promises to do just that. Dive into how PRP works and its pro-athlete benefits.
What Are Bone Growth Stimulators?

What Are Bone Growth Stimulators?

It may seem a bit like sci-fi, but bone growth stimulators use waves of energy to enhance the healing process that bone tissue undergoes after a fracture. Read more about this painless, innovative therapy and its benefits.
When Can I Exercise Normally After Knee Arthroscopy?

When Can I Exercise Normally After Knee Arthroscopy?

Knee arthroscopy typically offers a faster recovery than traditional open surgeries. But it’s crucial to follow instructions as you heal. Our specialty team offers tips for returning to regular activity after arthroscopy.
Possible Reasons Your Knee Keeps Locking

Possible Reasons Your Knee Keeps Locking

Everything from climbing a staircase to running a marathon requires cooperation from your knees. Injured ligaments, cartilage, bones, or muscles could be in play when your knee refuses to bend. Here are some common causes of knee locking.
This Is How Arthritis Affects Your Shoulders

This Is How Arthritis Affects Your Shoulders

If you’re an athlete or have reached a certain age, you’ve probably heard about the pitfalls of shoulder arthritis. But have you ever wondered if you can avoid it, how it affects joints, and which treatments can help? Keep reading.