Stress fracture in athletes

Early diagnosis of femoral neck stress fractures may decrease incidence of bilateral progression and surgical interventions: A case report and literature review

“…Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the radiographic signs since visualization of the actual fracture line may be difficult. Initially, x-rays can show a periosteal thickening demonstrating a periosteal reaction [ 11 ]. Other signs include periosteal sclerosis, cortical changes and lateral callus formation [ 11 ].…”

“…Initially, x-rays can show a periosteal thickening demonstrating a periosteal reaction [ 11 ]. Other signs include periosteal sclerosis, cortical changes and lateral callus formation [ 11 ]. However, the gold standard for diagnosis is a MRI with T1-weighted images showing a linear hypointense fracture line [ 12 ].…”

Management of Femoral Neck Stress Fracture in an Athlete Using Clodronic Acid: a Clinical Case Report

“…Essentially, stress fractures are the result of a succession of micro-traumas that over time lead to gradual weakening of the bone architecture. Indeed, repetitive movements that exceed physiological bone elasticity could damage the tissue, leading to osteocyte apoptosis and activation of osteoclastic differentiation mediators such as the receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL) [1]. The activation of the aforementioned mechanism is fundamental in bone remodeling, and consequently in microlesion repair.…”

“…The activation of the aforementioned mechanism is fundamental in bone remodeling, and consequently in microlesion repair. However, an increase in the porosity of the bone tissue can occur, with consequent weakening of the whole bone structure [1].…”

“…They are widespread amongst professional as well as amateur athletes. Indeed, repetition of movements that overload the bone tissue can lead to the development of micro-traumas, which add up to generate the fracture [1].…”