Pienjännitysvaurio

Pienjännitysvaurio, also known as stress injury or stress fracture, is a common overuse injury affecting bones. It is characterized by tiny cracks in the bone that develop over time due to repetitive force or excessive strain. These injuries are not caused by a single traumatic event but rather by accumulated stress on the bone, often from activities like running, jumping, or sports that involve high impact.

The primary cause of pienjännitysvaurio is an imbalance between bone breakdown and bone repair. When the stress on the bone exceeds its capacity to recover, microfractures begin to form. Factors that can increase the risk include sudden increases in training intensity or duration, inadequate footwear, poor bone density, and nutritional deficiencies, particularly in calcium and vitamin D.

Symptoms typically include localized pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest. Swelling and tenderness over the affected bone may also be present. The pain can start as a dull ache and gradually intensify. Diagnosis usually involves a physical examination and imaging techniques such as X-rays, although early-stage stress fractures may not be visible on standard X-rays. MRI or bone scans are often more sensitive in detecting these injuries.

Treatment for pienjännitysvaurio focuses on reducing the stress on the bone. This usually involves rest from the offending activity, sometimes for several weeks. Pain management may include over-the-counter pain relievers. Gradual return to activity is crucial, often with modifications to avoid re-injury. Prevention strategies include proper training progression, wearing appropriate footwear, maintaining good nutrition, and addressing any biomechanical issues.