Introduction-A conservative method of treating four delayed union stress fr
actures of the anterior mid-tibia is described, with an illustrative case h
istory.
Methods-Once diagnosed each of the patients was treated in a pneumatic lowe
r leg brace with modified rest. The mean (range) age of the patients was 28
(24-32) years and all were involved in professional or amateur sports. The
mean (range) duration of symptoms before diagnosis and definitive treatmen
t of the four fractures was 9 (3-14) months.
Results-Use of this technique avoided the need for surgery in this group of
patients and allowed return to unrestricted activity an average of 12 mont
hs from presentation.
Conclusion-The treatment is cost effective and avoids the often uncertain r
esults and morbidity associated with surgery for these difficult stress fra
ctures.