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Are You at Risk for a Tibial Stress Fracture? Key Factors to Consider
Published: Jan 04, 2024
Tibial stress fractures don't just happen to elite athletes. Understanding your risk factors can help prevent this painful injury that sidelines runners and other active individuals.
Training Troubles
One of the biggest risk factors for tibial stress fractures is rapid increases in training volume or intensity. This is often seen in new runners or those preparing for a big event. Suddenly upping your mileage or adding lots of hill work can overload the bone before it has time to adapt. Running on hard surfaces like concrete also increases stress on the tibia.
Biomechanical Bugbears
Your body's structure and movement patterns play a big role in stress fracture risk. High arches (pes cavus) or flat feet (pes planus) can alter how force is distributed through the leg. Tight calf muscles, leg length discrepancies, and poor running form are other biomechanical factors that increase risk. Even previous surgeries like knee replacements can change your gait and stress the tibia.
Bone Health and Beyond
Low bone density is a major risk factor for all types of stress fractures. This can be due to genetics, diet, or certain medical conditions. Women, especially those with irregular menstrual cycles, are at higher risk due to potential hormonal effects on bone health. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly in calcium and vitamin D, can weaken bones and increase fracture risk.
The Psychological Component
Surprisingly, your mindset can also play a role. Some studies have found that highly driven athletes who ignore pain and push through fatigue are more likely to develop stress fractures. This 'no pain, no gain' mentality can lead to overtraining and injury.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, women have up to 3.5 times higher risk than men.
Worn-out shoes or those with poor shock absorption may increase risk.
Both young athletes and older adults with decreased bone density face higher risk.
Certain medications like corticosteroids can increase stress fracture risk.
Knowledge is Power
While some risk factors can't be changed, many can be modified with proper training, nutrition, and attention to biomechanics.
References
- Bennell KL, Brukner PD. Epidemiology and site specificity of stress fractures. Clin Sports Med 1997; 16:279.
- Beck BR, Rudolph K, Matheson GO, et al. Risk factors for tibial stress injuries: a case-control study. Clin J Sport Med 2015; 25:230.
- Davey T, Lanham-New SA, Shaw AM, et al. Fundamental differences in axial and appendicular bone density in stress fractured and uninjured Royal Marine recruits--a matched case-control study. Bone 2015; 73:120.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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