A stress fracture is a common injury among runners, and can set back your running schedule by an average of 6 weeks! But what exactly is a stress fracture, and how can it be prevented? Well, never fear were here to answer some questions you may have!

What is a stress fracture?

A stress fracture is a small crack in any of the weight bearing bones of the body.  The most commonly injured areas of runners are the tibia, or shinbone, and foot.

 When am you most likely to get a stress fracture?

Stress fractures happen most often when runners increase their intensity and mileage over several weeks to a few months.

 What does a stress fracture feel like?

A stress fracture typically feels like a dull ache along the bone.  The pain usually feels localized to the specific spot of the fracture.  Typically, it will hurt it you press on it. The pain will get progressively worse as you run on the injury, and it may even hurt if you jump on it.

 What is the treatment for a stress fracture?

There is no real treatment other than rest.  A physician may prescribe a boot or crutches to help keep the pressure off the affected area. This allows for complete healing of the fracture. If you continue to run and put pressure on a stress fracture it can lead to a bone fracture that could set you back months, and may result in surgery.

 How can you prevent a stress fracture?

Check in with your training program and make sure you are not pushing too hard – make sure you’re not making dramatic increases in distance. Strength trying is key to keeping your body up to the increased needs of distance running. Strengthening of your hips, core, quads, and calves can help prevent a stress fractures. 

There are so many running activities coming up this summer, so get out there and enjoy them! Just be sure to take care of yourself along the way and listen to what your body is telling you.