Väsymisrasitus

Väsymisrasitus, often translated as fatigue fracture or stress fracture, refers to a bone injury caused by repetitive stress over time. It is not a single traumatic event but rather a result of cumulative microtrauma to the bone. This type of injury commonly occurs in athletes, military personnel, and individuals engaging in activities that involve high impact or repetitive loading of the bones, particularly in the lower extremities like the tibia, fibula, and metatarsals.

The development of a väsymisrasitus is often attributed to an imbalance between bone resorption and bone formation. When the rate of bone breakdown exceeds the rate of repair due to repeated stress, the bone weakens, making it susceptible to fracture. Factors that can contribute to väsymisrasitus include sudden increases in training intensity or duration, inadequate rest and recovery, improper footwear, biomechanical abnormalities, and nutritional deficiencies, such as low calcium or vitamin D levels.

Symptoms of väsymisrasitus typically include localized pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest. Swelling and tenderness over the affected bone may also be present. In some cases, a dull ache might persist even at rest. Diagnosis often involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies such as X-rays, although early stress fractures may not be visible on initial X-rays and may require MRI or bone scan for definitive diagnosis. Treatment focuses on rest, activity modification, and pain management. Gradual return to activity is guided by the resolution of symptoms and medical advice to prevent recurrence.