Upper extremity stress fractures

Although they are less common than lower-extremity stress fractures, upper-extremity stress fractures are becoming recognized much more frequently. A majority of these fractures are caused by overuse and fatigue of the surrounding musculature and, as a result, may be prevented by appropriate training and conditioning. The diagnosis is made by obtaining a medical history and a physical examination with the aid of plain radiographs, bone scans, and MRI. Most of these fractures heal with a period of relative rest followed by a structured rehabilitation program. A small percentage of these fractures, however, may require surgical fixation.