Femoral stress fractures.

Stress fractures are common overuse injuries attributed to the repetitive trauma associated with vigorous weightbearing activities. A high index of suspicion is necessary to diagnose stress fractures of the femur because the symptoms may be vague. The precipitating factors, whether related to training errors or medical conditions, should be thoroughly evaluated. Early diagnosis of distraction femoral neck stress fractures is critical to avoid serious complications. Femoral shaft stress fractures have excellent healing potential when diagnosed early and treated non-operatively. Stress fractures of the femoral condyles are uncommon, but should be included in the differential of knee pain.

Duke Scholars

Author Kevin Paul Speer Orthopaedic Surgery