Stress fractures in the athlete

Abstract

Stress fractures are common injuries in the athletic population. High clinical suspicion is required for the diagnosis because of vague historical and physical features. Bone scans are the gold standard of diagnosis, though MR imaging and CT may be helpful adjuncts. Most stress fractures do very well with the nonsurgical treatment approach. Some fractures of the proximal diaphysis of the fifth metatarsal, femoral neck fractures, and any displaced, completed fracture require surgery. Consideration must also be given for correctable risk factors and preventive measures must be addressed.