Low-risk stress fractures

Stress fractures can occur in almost any bone in the body, with the lower e xtremity weightbearing bones, especially the tibia, tarsals, and metatarsal s, being affected most frequently. Although the cause of these fractures is multifactoral, repetitive physical forces without adequate rest are the pr imary culprits. Stress fractures may be broadly classified as low-risk or h ighrisk injuries. Low-risk stress fractures, the topic of this review artic le, can be diagnosed through a thorough history, physical examination, and radiographs. Nuclear scintigraphy is occasionally necessary for confirmatio n, especially for fractures of the spine and pelvis. When diagnosed early a nd treated with restriction of activity, low-risk stress fractures have a f avorable prognosis.