Treatment of a stress fracture

The treatment of a stress fracture depends on several factors.First of all, it is decisive whether a fracture is only in its preliminary stages (such as microfractures) or already manifest. In the case of preliminary stages of a fracture, it may initially be sufficient to suspend the permanent load. If the loading activity is stopped, the affected bone has time to regenerate.

If a fracture is already manifest (pronounced), a specific therapy must be carried out. This therapy depends on the location of the fracture and the severity of the fracture. In some cases, a conservative treatment with a plaster cast is sufficient to relieve the strain on the bone so that it can regenerate.

In other cases, surgical procedures are necessary to achieve permanent bone healing. Depending on the location of the fracture and its severity, certain nailing procedures or the use of plates and screws may be considered. In other cases, the surgeon may remove a piece of healthy bone from the iliac crest and insert it at the fracture site.

Immobilization of up to four weeks should follow. This gives the injured bone time to regenerate. The load on the affected part of the body should then be increased again only slowly to prevent a relapse. Physiotherapy can help here.

Duration of a stress fracture

The time until a stress fracture heals varies greatly from person to person and depends on several factors. First of all, it is decisive whether a manifest fracture is already present or only preliminary stages. Early stages usually heal within 6 to 8 weeks with immobilization in a plaster cast or splints and bandages.

Manifest fractures requiring a cast or surgery also require immobilization for several weeks. Physiotherapy can have a supportive effect and positively influence the course of the disease. A complete renunciation of the triggering strain (e.g. running sports) is absolutely necessary. A gradually increased load on the corresponding part of the body up to the full load should definitely be discussed with the attending physician in order to avoid the occurrence of relapses.