High-risk stress fractures: pathogenesis, evaluation, and treatment

Compr Ther. 2006 Spring;32(1):20-5. doi: 10.1385/comp:32:1:20.

Abstract

High-risk stress fractures require precise assessment and treatment because of their propensity for delayed union, nonunion, or complete fracture and their resulting disabling complications. Proper diagnosis necessitates a thorough clinical evaluation, centering on the patient's diet and history, particularly the training regimen. For a definitive diagnosis, plain radiography, ultrasound, bone scintigraphy, magnetic resonance imagery (MRI), and computed tomography (CT) are helpful, and each plays a specific role. High-risk stress fractures typically require aggressive treatment such as nonweight-bearing immobilization coupled with therapy and often surgery.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Athletic Injuries* / diagnosis
  • Athletic Injuries* / etiology
  • Athletic Injuries* / therapy
  • Fractures, Stress* / diagnosis
  • Fractures, Stress* / etiology
  • Fractures, Stress* / therapy
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Stress, Mechanical
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed