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Home Help: Stress Fractures

Again, you can’t negotiate your way through a stress fracture. You have to stop running to let the bone heal. Sorry.

When you resume running, expect some discomfort, but not pain, where the fracture was. As long as the sensation there is more of a dull tug than a sharp pain, it’s OK to gradually build back up. In some cases you might also have a bump where the fracture was; this is new bone that was laid down around the site of the fracture. I have one on my left shin. It’s not the prettiest thing in the world, but it’s not a source of pain (or concern). If anything, it’s a visual reminder to never again get a stress fracture.

If you get more than one stress fracture, then you’re repeatedly overloading one of your body’s weak points. Lessen the chance of recurrence by being diligent about flexibility and strength work so that you’re more resilient. Also, make sure your diet includes enough calcium.