Stress Fractures are a condition where training
load has exceeded your body’s ability to maintain bone structure,
resulting in partial to complete breakdown of the bone. Beware of
deep aches in the front of the thigh. This tends to be a type of
ache where you can’t touch the specific spot that hurts. During
the earlier stages of a stress fracture you may be able to run without
pain after you are warmed up; however, pain is often increased after
the run. As the condition progresses the pain intensifies and often
leaves you with a limp . A firm quick squeeze of the thighbone in
the region of the ache may reproduce the familiar pain. X-rays will
usually confirm the diagnosis after three weeks of symptoms (although
this varies).
This condition requires more proper rest. Plan on at least
6 weeks of not running. Cycling, swimming or deep-water running
are the best cross training options because
of the decreased weight bearing. If you are limping when you
walk, using crutches until the limp is gone will dramatically
speed recovery.
Considerations: Nutritional or hormonal factors
may affect this condition. Consult a sports physician if you feel
this is a concern.
Stress Fractures are a condition where training
load has exceeded your body’s ability to maintain bone structure,
resulting in partial to complete breakdown of the bone. Beware of
deep aches in the front of the thigh. This tends to be a type of
ache where you can’t touch the specific spot that hurts. During
the earlier stages of a stress fracture you may be able to run without
pain after you are warmed up; however, pain is often increased after
the run. As the condition progresses the pain intensifies and often
leaves you with a limp . A firm quick squeeze of the thighbone in
the region of the ache may reproduce the familiar pain. X-rays will
usually confirm the diagnosis after three weeks of symptoms (although
this varies).
