Use of bisphosphonates for the treatment of stress fractures in athletes

A literature review was performed to investigate the potential role of bisphosphonates for the treatment of stress fractures in athletes. Given the inhibitory action on osteoclast-mediated bone resorption, short-term suppression of bone remodeling using bisphosphonates could potentially treat stress fractures and prevent stress fractures from becoming regular fractures. To date, while there are some animal studies showing the scientific basis of bisphosphonates on stress fractures, there is still no conclusive evidence to prove any effect of bisphosphonates on stress fracture healing in humans. Further well-designed clinical trials should be carried out to establish their usefulness and safety. Until the results are available, it is prudent to limit the use of bisphosphonates for the treatment of stress fractures.