M E Batt1, S Kemp, R Kerslake. 1. Centre for Sports Medicine, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK. Mark.Batt@nottingham.ac.uk
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: A conservative method of treating four delayed union stress fractures of the anterior mid-tibia is described, with an illustrative case history. METHODS: Once diagnosed each of the patients was treated in a pneumatic lower leg brace with modified rest. The mean (range) age of the patients was 28 (24-32) years and all were involved in professional or amateur sports. The mean (range) duration of symptoms before diagnosis and definitive treatment of the four fractures was 9 (3-14) months. RESULTS: Use of this technique avoided the need for surgery in this group of patients and allowed return to unrestricted activity an average of 12 months from presentation. CONCLUSION: The treatment is cost effective and avoids the often uncertain results and morbidity associated with surgery for these difficult stress fractures.
INTRODUCTION: A conservative method of treating four delayed union stress fractures of the anterior mid-tibia is described, with an illustrative case history. METHODS: Once diagnosed each of the patients was treated in a pneumatic lower leg brace with modified rest. The mean (range) age of the patients was 28 (24-32) years and all were involved in professional or amateur sports. The mean (range) duration of symptoms before diagnosis and definitive treatment of the four fractures was 9 (3-14) months. RESULTS: Use of this technique avoided the need for surgery in this group of patients and allowed return to unrestricted activity an average of 12 months from presentation. CONCLUSION: The treatment is cost effective and avoids the often uncertain results and morbidity associated with surgery for these difficult stress fractures.
Authors: Patrick G Robinson; Victoria Bd Campbell; Andrew D Murray; Alastair Nicol; James Robson Journal: Br J Gen Pract Date: 2019-04 Impact factor: 5.386