How can I tell if I have a stress fracture in my femur?

Signs and Symptoms

  1. Local pain and oedema.
  2. Point tenderness on palpation.
  3. Local swelling.
  4. Antalgic gait.
  5. Painful and limited passive and active ROM of hip and/or knee (flexion, internal rotation, extension)
  6. Pain increases during activity.
  7. Groin pain.
  8. Bone marrow oedema.

What is the most common site of stress fractures in the femur?

Stress fractures of the femoral shaft are not common but when they do occur it is usually in the proximal third of the femur.

Can you walk with a hairline fracture in your femur?

What shouldn’t I do if I have a stress fracture of the shaft of the femur? If you have or suspect you have a stress fracture of the shaft of the femur, you shouldn’t continue to exercise or participate in sport. A stress fracture represents an area of breakdown and weakness within the bone.

What does a femur fracture feel like?

A femur fracture may cause extreme pain in the upper leg area or hip area. It also may cause lesser pain in the buttocks, knee, thigh, groin, or back. You may experience: Difficulty walking, or inability to walk, move the leg, or stand.

How is a stress fracture of the femur treated?

How is a Stress Fracture of the Femur Treated at OSS Health?

  1. Rest and ice.
  2. Crutches.
  3. Immobilization.
  4. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications.
  5. Physical Therapy.
  6. Osteoporosis medications.

How do you treat a hairline fracture of the femur?

The majority of hairline fractures will heal by themselves if the person refrains from activities that put a strain on the affected area. For the first 24 to 48 hours, a person can help the healing process by elevating the affected area and applying ice where possible.

What is the hop test for a stress fracture?

The single-leg hop test (A–D) is performed with the patient standing barefoot on a stable surface and instructing him or her to jump up and down several times. (C) Using both feet, he or she should jump several inches off the ground. Verbal cues, such as “take bunny hops,” are also helpful.

Does stress fracture hurt all the time?

At first, you might barely notice the pain associated with a stress fracture, but it tends to worsen with time. The tenderness usually starts at a specific spot and decreases during rest. You might have swelling around the painful area.

How long does it take for a hairline fracture of the femur to heal?

Most femoral shaft fractures take 3 to 6 months to completely heal. Some take even longer, especially if the fracture was open or broken into several pieces or if the patient uses tobacco products.

Do you need a cast for a stress fracture?

Sometimes a stress fracture will need a cast, splint, or brace. Rarely, surgery is needed. If you have pain from a stress fracture, you can: Place a cold compress or ice wrapped in a towel on the area for about 15 minutes three times a day.