When to suspect a stress fracture. Stress fractures are an injury that runners dread due to long recovery time and time off running.
Stress fractures are more common if there has been a spike in running including increased distance, speed work and more frequency. Reduced recovery is also a common feature. This includes reduced sleep and there is evidence that stress also plays a roll.
Symptoms of stress fracture include pain with weight bearing with impact, pain that increases with activity. Night pain is often reported. Bony tenderness is often a feature and there may be swelling.
Female runners are at increased risk of stress fracture, especially those with a previous history of stress fracture and low BMI. Suboptimal nutrition and post pregnancy return to running are also increase risks.
If you are concerned you may have a stress fracture get it checked out. A physio will be able to assess you and advise if further investigation is required.