Stress Fracture of the Fibula

What is a stress fracture of the fibula?

A stress fracture of the fibula is a small fracture or hairline crack in the bone. It is not a common as a stress fracture of the tibia because the fibula is not used in load bearing in the same way.

What causes a stress fracture of the fibula?

Muscles traction and twisting forces placed on the bone from the surrounding muscles is usually the cause. Athletes with excessive pronation (rolling in) of the feet when running will get it more common because the personnel muscles must work harder for longer during toe-off in the running gait cycle.

What are the symptoms of a stress fracture to the fibula?

• Pain and local tenderness at a point on the fibula.
• Pain on weight bearing although this is not as painful as a stress fracture of the tibia.

What can the athlete do to help a stress fracture to the fibula?

• Rest from training and competition until the local bone tenderness is gone.
• Return to training very gradually.
• Stretch the muscles of the lower leg.
• Wear a heat retainer or support to support the muscles of the lower leg.

What can the sports injury therapist do?

• Apply sports massage techniques to the muscles of the lower leg.
• Advise on a gradual return to sport.