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Stress fractures / Hairline fractures
Fractures of the bone that are caused by repeated stress over time, making them a common sporting injury.
What is a stress fracture?
Stress fractures are hairline cracks in the bones, usually in the lower leg and feet, and a common sports injury. They are caused by repeated shock and overload from, for example, running on hard surfaces or certain exercises such as gymnastics, tennis, dance and athletics. If you feel pain during exercise, we can help screen for stress fractures.
Need to know
If you have a stress fracture, you'll most likely notice pain during exercise which will lessen once you rest. It tends to be more common in women.
If you think you may have a stress fracture, it's important to diagnose it early. Your consultant will examine the area and ask about your lifestyle and exercise routine.
You'll have an X-ray of the area that's causing you pain. If this doesn't show up any smaller cracks or reveals evidence of partial healing, you may also have an MRI or CT scan.
Rest is the most effective way to recover from stress fractures. If there's a risk of the fracture getting worse, your consultant may advise a cast and crutches. You consultant may also refer you to our foot orthotics team, who can look at your foot posture. This can reduce the impact on areas of your feet and legs, and may help prevent injuries in the future. It's important to follow the advice given as returning to exercise too early can cause longer term injuries.
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
David’s gym video shows him repeatedly pushing up to 100kg on a single leg press – not particularly unusual for this keen cyclist, former competitive squash player and all-round fitness enthusiast. What is unusual is that 52-year-old David had hip surgery just 12 weeks earlier.
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.