Broken bones, also known as fractures, account for a significant number of sports injuries. These injuries can occur from one event or from repetitive motion, which can cause a stress fracture.
Stress fractures often are more difficult to diagnose because there is not an isolated event that caused the injury, and they usually occur in the lower extremities of the shin bones and feet. Also, the bone likely is attempting to heal itself already, so the break might not show up on an X-ray.
Broken bones that result from a single event are easier to diagnose because of the severe pain that often results. Symptoms of a broken bone or fracture — stress or otherwise — include pain, swelling, bruising and an inability to use the affected area.
The best treatment for a fracture is ice, rest and elevation of the affected area. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, surgery is needed to repair the fracture, often because of damage done to ligaments or tendons during the break. After surgery, the affected area will be immobilized using a cast or splint to allow the bone to heal back together.
