Imaging of running-induced osseous injuries

Abstract

Osseous overuse and stress-related injuries commonly occur in individuals who participate in the sport of running. While the clinical history and physical examination are important first steps in establishing the correct diagnosis, imaging often plays a vital role in confirming the diagnosis and in determining the extent of injury and prognosis for the injured athlete. This article will provide a thorough review of the numerous osseous stress injuries that occur in runners, including a summary of the high-risk stress fractures. Imaging strategies are discussed and the typical radiographic, CT, MRI and nuclear scintigraphic findings are described for each of the various stress-related injuries associated with running.