Stress fractures, small cracks in your bones, are caused by overuse during exercise. If your muscles become fatigued, they are not capable of absorbing the pressure your body takes during a workout. This excess pressure causes “microcracks” in your bones.
The most common place for a stress fracture is in your legs, due to the weight they bear each day. Another cause might be due to an increased intensity during a workout or working out on an unusual surface.
The most common symptoms of a stress fracture might include:
Stress fractures share some of the same symptoms of shin splints, but stress fractures are more severe. If you believe you have a stress fracture, please consult with your physician.