Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle in Athletes, an Overview

Abstract

Stress fractures occur due to repetitive forces on the bones and develop over time. The etiology differs from a traumatic fracture and therefore stress fractures are more an overload injury. Stress fractures of the foot and ankle are frequently seen in athletes and can be a potentially career ending injury for these high demanding sportsmen. Some locations are considered as high-risk stress fractures due to slow healing and high rates of non-unions. This article discusses the most common sites for stress fractures of the foot and ankle, the risks and evidence on best treatment options.