Dr. Vaishali Suri (P.T.)
What Are Stress Fractures?
Stress fractures are microscopic bone injuries caused by repetitive loading that exceeds the bone's capacity to remodel. Unlike acute fractures from a single force, stress fractures develop gradually over days to weeks of repetitive activity. They occur when training load increases faster than the bone can adapt -- the most common cause is a sudden increase in training volume (the classic case: someone who starts running daily after months of inactivity).
Common Locations
Tibia (medial border): most common running-related stress fracture. Metatarsals (2nd and 3rd most common): common in runners and military recruits. Navicular (high-risk): slow healing, risk of complete fracture -- requires immediate non-weight-bearing. Femoral neck (high-risk): if complete fracture occurs, surgical fixation is often necessary. Lumbar pars interarticularis: in fast bowlers, gymnasts, weightlifters. Fibula and calcaneus: lower-risk stress fractures that generally heal well.
Physiotherapy Role in Stress Fracture Management
Maintain Fitness During Healing
Complete rest is not required -- maintaining cardiovascular fitness through low-impact activities (pool running, cycling) during the healing period prevents deconditioning without stressing the fracture site.
Identify and Correct Contributing Factors
Training load errors, nutritional deficiencies (low bone density, relative energy deficiency in sport), biomechanical factors (high tibial stress from overstriding, hip weakness), and footwear. Correcting these factors prevents recurrence.
Graduated Return-to-Activity Programme
Structured, progressive return to weight-bearing activity based on pain response and healing time. High-risk sites require longer periods.
Stress Fracture Rehabilitation in Faridabad
At Realign Rehab Clinic, NIT-5, Faridabad, we manage stress fractures safely. Book your assessment today.