(HealthDay News) — A stress fracture often occurs from a sudden increase in activity.
Abrupt overuse of the muscles
means they can no longer absorb the shock of a particular activity. This causes a small crack to develop in nearby bone.
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers this list of common reasons for stress fractures:
- Suddenly exercising more frequently or more intensely.
- Exercising on a new type of surface, such as when a tennis player changes from soft clay to a harder surface.
- Using worn or inappropriate exercise equipment, such as shoes without adequate support.
- A sudden increase in physical stress, such as when a sports player is abruptly given more playing time.