Find books on
Health Education at
 |
|
| Your Own Health
Reference |
|
|
| | |
| Q. |
What is a stress fracture?
|
| A. |
Fractures, usually hairline type, they may be caused by minor injury such as severe coughing or long marches, jogging, etc.
|
| | |
| Q. |
How are they diagnosed?
|
| A. |
By history and physical examination. The fracture line is generally so small that x-rays are frequently negative.
|
| | |
| Q. |
Are there any predisposing factors?
|
| A. |
Predisposing factors include:
- Sex: Women are more frequently affected than men.
- Race: Whites have a greater risk factor than blacks.
- Age: Incidence increases with age, probably due to developing osteoporosis.
- Certain bone diseases.
- Skeletal mal-alignments.
|
| | |
| Q. |
Are any factors connected with overuse?
|
| A. |
Other factors include repetitive trauma associated with exercise, such as, prolonged marching, jogging or running.
|
| | |
| Q. |
Which bones are most frequently involved?
|
| A. |
Bone most frequently injured are bones of the foot, heel and knee.
|
| | |
| Q. |
Are other bones ever subject to hairline fracture?
|
| A. |
Yes, neck bones, collar bones and first ribs are frequently affected.
|
| | |
| Q. |
How is the fracture diagnosed?
|
| A. |
By a bone scan or an MRI. X-rays may not show hairline fractures for two to three weeks.
|
| | |
| Q. |
How are the fractures treated?
|
| A. |
Rest with limited or non-weight bearing. Certain stress fractures may require casting and non-weight bearing.
|
The summary information contained in this document is for informational purposes only. This summary may not contain all the information you should know about the medical conditions, medications, products or treatments described. DO NOT USE THIS INFORMATION TO DIAGNOSE A HEALTH PROBLEM OR PRESCRIBE A MEDICATION. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR UNCERTAINTIES, OR NEED ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, YOU SHOULD ALWAYS CONSULT YOUR OWN PHYSICIAN AND MEDICAL ADVISORS.
Copyright 1992, 2001, 2006 PrimeCare Systems, Inc. | |
