Too much of something never ends well, and this applies to everything, including one’s health and lifestyle choices.
Playing sports is an effective way to lead a healthy lifestyle and prevent the development of lifestyle diseases such as obesity, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes. However, experts in sports medicine in Boca Raton warn that not taking the time to rest and recover after a particularly intense game or training session can take a toll on your body.
Understanding Stress Fractures
A stress fracture is an overuse injury that commonly affects the bones of the lower extremities. These injuries are prevalent in athletes and military recruits who participate in rigorous training. When the muscles become tired, they fail to absorb shock efficiently. The shock and stress from the muscles will then be transferred to the bones, creating a small crack termed as a stress fracture.
The weight-bearing bones in the lower extremities, particularly the shinbone and the small bones of the foot, are more prone to stress fractures. In fact, they account for over 50% of stress fracture cases. These fractures occur gradually and result from exerting a steadily increasing amount and intensity of stress in a short period of time.
Signs and Symptoms of Stress Fractures
Stress fractures are not painful at first, but the pain worsens over time. The pain usually intensifies with physical activity and weight-bearing and subsides with rest. Swelling and inflammation may also be present around the affected area.
Who Are at Risk
Basketball, gymnastics, tennis, and track and field players are prone to developing stress fractures because of repeated contact between their feet and the ground, creating stress and trauma.
Likewise, female athletes have been shown to sustain more stress fractures compared to males. This is attributed to the decreasing bone density in females as they near the menopausal age.
Patients who have had a stress fracture in the past are also more likely to be injured once more compared to those who never had them before.
What to Do?
If you think you might be suffering from a stress fracture, consult an expert in sports medicine in Boca Raton. Our doctors will have to perform a thorough physical examination and run tests to ensure that you are not suffering from anything else before starting treatment.
Rest is a key element to recover from stress fractures. Patients should avoid engaging in the activity that caused the fracture until the injury heals completely. Otherwise, there is a risk for re-injury, which usually takes a longer time to heal.
Patients may also wear braces and inserts to stabilize the injured body part and help the fractured bone heal faster.
Where to Find the Best Providers of Sports Medicine in Boca Raton
Orthopaedic Surgery Associates has helped many athletes and orthopedic patients to improve their health and quality of life throughout the years. We have qualified specialists and state-of-the-art technology to treat your condition – you are in good hands.
If you are suffering from a stress fracture or know someone who does, don’t hesitate to consult our specialists to get a thorough assessment and accurate diagnosis of your condition. You can also request an appointment or call us at (561) 395-5733.
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
