Abstract
Background
Stress fracture (SF) is the single most common cause for the lost number of manpower days during training of recruits in the Armed Forces. This prospective study was undertaken with a view to develop baseline data on incidence of SF and to identify related variables.
Methods
A prospective study over a period of five years during 2004–2009 in which a total of 8,570 recruits were enrolled at the start of their training to find out the incidence and pattern of SFs.
Results
A total of 604 (7.04%, 95% CI 6.40–7.40%) out of a total of 8,570 recruits sustained SF during the study period. The majority of fractures occurred during basic training. The factors like urban residence, vegetarianism and those without prior history of physical activity were found to be associated with SF. Tibia was the commonest bone involved.
Conclusion
Prevention is undoubtedly the best approach in SF and other sports injuries. Priority should be given to individuals with good sports and physical activity background during recruitment. Intensity of training should be gradually increased during first three months (12 weeks) of training.
Key Words: recruits, stress fracture
References
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