Tibia Stress Fracture?

A stress fracture of the lower leg is difficult to diagnose due to the vague discomfort and pain over the muscles of the lower leg [shin splints].  A stress fracture develops when the muscles of your lower leg are overworked and cause the bones top layer called the periosteum to become irritated.

How does the fracture occur?
1.Chronic shin splints can lead to a fracture
2.Over or underpronation in your foot can lead to overworking your lower leg muscles
3.Overuse – increase or change in training
4.Running on hard surfaces, hills, jumping
5.A history of osteoporosis



How do I diagnose this?
1.I perform an examination
2.I will send you for an X-ray after 10-14 days, and treat it as a fracture if I suspect it to be a fracture even if the x-ray is negative
3.If necessary I will send you for a bone scan can to detect hot spots

How do I treat it? I will prescribe:
1.Rest for 4-6 weeks
2.Physical therapy Including use of some of the equipment in my office such as the PEMF, IF
3.Increase Vitamin C, Calcium, Vitamin D [consult your primary care doctor]
4.Water exercises or cycling [non-impact]
5.I will look at why did you developed this. Discuss possible causes such as  Orthotics/shoes/ and I will treat the root cause.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Laurie call us at (512) 258-4425 or visit our website to learn more.