Non-operative General - Bony Stress Reactions/Stress Fractures Treatment

The primary treatment of bony stress reactions or stress fractures is rest to allow the lesions to heal. This may range from simply avoiding the sport or activity that causes pain to limited weightbearing, even sometimes with crutches. The amount of recovery time can vary greatly depending on the bones involved, severity of injury, and nutritional status. Sometimes bracing, fracture boots, orthotics, or casting may be used to assist in unloading stress on the injured area. If the precipitating activity is resumed too quickly, the lesions may not heal completely and may lead to long-term chronic problems.

Once the initial healing phase has progressed, physical therapy and rehabilitation are then started to begin a gradual and safe return to activity.