Contents
Are You at Risk for Stress Fractures? Find Out Now!
Published: Jan 24, 2024
Stress fractures can be silent until they cause significant pain, and knowing your risk factors can help you prevent them.
Common Risk Factors
Factors such as prior stress fractures, low physical fitness, and sudden increases in activity can heighten your risk. A poor diet, especially low in calcium and vitamin D, can make bones more susceptible. Additionally, athletes with high training volumes or those using worn-out footwear are at greater risk.
Gender and Age Influences
Females are generally more prone to stress fractures due to hormonal differences affecting bone density. Menstrual irregularities further increase this risk. Age also plays a role, with individuals between 17 to 26 years being most commonly affected, likely due to higher activity levels.
Non-Modifiable Factors
Some risk factors, like being female or having a family history of osteoporosis, can't be changed. However, awareness of these can encourage proactive prevention strategies. Additionally, certain anatomical features, like flat feet, may predispose individuals to stress fractures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Low fitness and poor diet increase risk.
Yes, due to hormonal differences in bone density.
Yes, ages 17-26 are most commonly affected.
Yes, certain foot types can increase risk.
Wrapping Up
Identifying your risk factors can help you take preventative steps against stress fractures.
References
- Bennell KL, Brukner PD. Epidemiology and site specificity of stress fractures. Clin Sports Med 1997; 16:179.
- Waterman BR, Gun B, Bader JO, et al. Epidemiology of Lower Extremity Stress Fractures in the United States Military. Mil Med 2016; 181:1308.
- Mountjoy M, Sundgot-Borgen J, Burke L, et al. The IOC consensus statement: beyond the Female Athlete Triad--Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S). Br J Sports Med 2014; 48:491.
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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