ermüdungsbruch

Ermüdungsbruch, also known as fatigue fracture or stress fracture, is a type of bone fracture that occurs when repeated stress is applied to a bone. Unlike acute fractures, which result from a single, high-impact event, fatigue fractures develop gradually over time due to cumulative microtrauma. This type of fracture is common in athletes, military personnel, and individuals who engage in activities involving repetitive impact or strenuous load-bearing on their bones.

The underlying mechanism involves the bone's inability to repair the microdamage caused by repeated stress before it accumulates to a critical level. Initially, microcracks form within the bone. If the stress continues, these cracks can propagate and eventually lead to a complete fracture. Common sites for fatigue fractures include the tibia, fibula, metatarsals, and femur. Symptoms often include localized pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest, swelling, and tenderness. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, imaging tests such as X-rays (though early fatigue fractures may not be visible), and sometimes MRI or bone scans.

Treatment for fatigue fractures primarily involves rest, reducing or eliminating the activity that caused the injury, and pain management. In some cases, a period of immobilization with a cast or boot may be necessary. Gradual return to activity is crucial to prevent re-injury. Prevention strategies focus on appropriate training progression, proper footwear, adequate nutrition (especially calcium and vitamin D), and listening to the body's signals to avoid overexertion.