Stress fractures in women

Stress fractures are a common overuse injury frequently reported in the female athlete. Although diagnosis and treatment of such injuries generally do not differ between males and females, several of the currently suspected predisposing risk factors are indeed unique to the female athlete. Multiple risk factors for stress fracture occurrence have been postulated although few have been proven to be causative. Bone mineral density, menstrual function, and dietary habits are potential risk factors for stress injury to bone, which are of particular interest in the female athlete. More well-controlled studies are needed to evaluate the role of each of these factors in the development of stress fractures.