Ermüdungsgeschwindigkeit

Ermüdungsbruch, also known as fatigue fracture or stress fracture, is a type of bone fracture that occurs when excessive force is applied to a bone repeatedly over time. Unlike a sudden traumatic fracture, an ermüdungsbruch develops gradually, often as a result of overuse or repetitive stress on the bone. This type of fracture is common in athletes and individuals who engage in activities that involve a lot of running, jumping, or marching, as these actions place significant and repeated stress on the lower extremities, particularly the tibia, fibula, and metatarsals.

The development of an ermüdungsbruch is a result of a mismatch between the rate of bone breakdown (resorption) and bone formation. When the bone is subjected to repeated stress, the micro-damage that occurs cannot be adequately repaired by the body's natural bone remodeling processes. Over time, this accumulation of micro-damage weakens the bone, making it susceptible to fracture. Contributing factors include insufficient rest between training sessions, improper footwear, inadequate nutrition (especially calcium and vitamin D deficiency), and underlying bone conditions.

Symptoms of an ermüdungsbruch typically include localized pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest. Swelling and tenderness over the affected bone are also common. Diagnosis is usually made through a combination of physical examination, patient history, and imaging studies such as X-rays, bone scans, or MRI. While X-rays may not show early ermüdungsbrüche, bone scans and MRIs are more sensitive in detecting these subtle fractures. Treatment generally involves rest, pain management, and avoiding activities that aggravate the pain. In some cases, a cast or walking boot may be necessary. Gradual return to activity is essential to prevent re-injury.