What is the definition or description of: stress fracture?

Symptoms and Imaging: Stress fractures are fractures that occur due to overuse. Usual symptoms include pain, swelling, but discoloration/ bruising, and decreased strength/ range of motion around the area may be present as well. Diagnosing a stress fracture can be tough because many do not show on an x-ray and may need to be confirmed by a mri. The best treatment option = rest + pain management.

Stress: One of the few aptly named problems in medicine. It occurs when the stresses that a bone sees is greater than the strength of the bone. This occurs over time and is usually related to repetitive activities. If it occurs with a trauma then it is not considered a stress fracture, but a traumatic fracture. We see these commonly in the feet, tibia and hip. (note weight bearing).