Health Tip: Let a Stress Fracture Heal

Take time off from exercise

August 10, 2010 RSS Feed Print

(HealthDay News) -- A stress fracture is an overuse injury that usually occurs from exercise, such as running.

Fatigued muscles after a while aren't able to absorb the stress of a certain activity, so the bone begins to absorb the impact, resulting in a tiny fracture.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons suggests how to help a stress fracture heal:

Take a break from the exercise or activity that triggered the stress fracture. Generally, healing takes about six to eight weeks.
If possible, limit yourself to light activity that doesn't cause pain for your particular fracture.
Using a brace or shoe insert may help speed healing.
Don't resume the activity too early, as re-injuring the area could cause an even larger, longer-lasting problem.