Stress Fractures, Bone Bruises, and Shin Splints

Stress fractures, bone bruises, and shin splints may cause pain for many weeks or even many months and interrupt normal activities. These injuries can be difficult to diagnose and MRI is required to determine the extent of the problem. Most stress fractures and shin splints are associated with sports and military training. A sudden or rapid increase in training, improper footwear, or a change in surface may cause these injuries. Bone bruises usually occur from an injury and frequently accompany other major problems such as a knee ligament tear. Early detection of these injuries is important because, if left untreated, they may progress to a complete fracture or not completely heal. Two medical professionals - Dr. Frank Noyes, an internationally renowned orthopaedic surgeon, and Sue Barber-Westin, Director of Clinical Research at the Cincinnati SportsMedicine Research Foundation - have written this eBook to help patients understand these injuries and the treatment options available.