Stress Fractures Causes & Risks

Causes

A stress fracture is not caused by a blow to the bone. Rather, it is typically caused by repeated stress or overuse. Some causes are:

• Increasing the amount or intensity of an activity too quickly (most common)
• Switching to a different playing or running surface
• Wearing improper or old shoes

Stress fractures can worsen by continued physical stress. Smoking can also make stress fractures worse because it interferes with bone healing.

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. Risk factors for a stress fracture include:

• Sex: female
• Certain sports, especially involving jumping or running:
  • Tennis
  • Track, especially distance running
  • Gymnastics
  • Dance
  • Basketball
• Amenorrhea (women only)
• Reduced bone thickness or density
• Poor muscle strength or flexibility
• Overweight or underweight
• Poor physical condition