Lower Leg Stress Fracture: Care Instructions

Overview

A stress fracture of the lower leg is a tiny hairline crack in the bone. It may happen in the tibia (shinbone), the larger bone of the lower leg. Or it may happen in the fibula, the smaller bone of the lower leg.

A lower leg hairline fracture often is caused by ongoing overuse, such as from regular long-distance running. Your doctor may have put your leg in a brace, splint, or cast to allow it to heal or to keep it stable until you see another doctor. It may take a few weeks to a few months to heal. It can be frustrating to slow down or stop your activities. But going back to exercise too soon can cause the injury to get worse and make healing take even longer.

You heal best when you take good care of yourself. Eat a variety of healthy foods, and don't smoke.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Rest your leg as much as you can for as long as your doctor advises. Follow your doctor's instructions for using crutches, a brace, or a splint.
• Ask your doctor before you change your activity level or go back to your usual exercise. Too much activity or weight on the leg with the fracture can cause it to get worse.
• Put ice or a cold pack on your leg for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Put a thin cloth between the ice and your skin.
• Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
  • If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
• Do exercises or physical therapy as directed by your doctor.