Bone Stress Injuries in Runners

• Published in: Physical medicine and rehabilitation clinics of North America Vol. 27; no. 1; pp. 139 - 149
• Main Authors: Tenforde, Adam S., MD, Kraus, Emily, MD, Fredericson, Michael, MD
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Elsevier Inc 01-02-2016
• Subjects: Biomechanical Phenomena; Bones of Lower Extremity - injuries; Cross-country; Diagnosis, Differential; Female athlete triad; Fractures, Stress - diagnosis; Fractures, Stress - therapy; Humans; Leg Injuries - diagnosis; Leg Injuries - therapy; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Medical History Taking; Physical Examination; Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation; Risk Factors; Runners; Running - injuries; Stress fractures; Track and field; Stress fractures; Female athlete triad; Runners; Track and field; Cross-country
• ISSN: 1047-9651; 1558-1381
• DOI: 10.1016/j.pmr.2015.08.008

Bone stress injuries (BSIs) are common running injuries and may occur at a rate of 20% annually. Both biological and biomechanical risk factors contribute to BSI. Evaluation of a runner with suspected BSI includes completing an appropriate history and physical examination. MRI grading classification for BSI has been proposed and may guide return to play. Management includes activity modification, optimizing nutrition, and addressing risk factors, including the female athlete triad. BSI prevention strategies include screening for risk factors during preparticipation evaluations, optimizing nutrition (including adequate caloric intake, calcium, and vitamin D), and promoting ball sports during childhood and adolescence.