Question:
Question to any exercise physiologists or exercise scientists out
there. How likely is it that on over pronator (not terrible) is
suseptible to stress fractures. Right now (well before I developed my
stress fracture) I was a beginning runner going four miles a day. I
wear orthotics and very supportive shoes. I really worried that I
gonna have to give up triathlon and all my goals and dreams because I
am pron to stress fractures. Anyone have any stats or comforting info
to ease me through my recovery??
Answer:
Don't know but some over pronation is normal for many people and they do not
get stress fractures.
I was running about twice that, also using orthotics and supportive shoes when
I developed stress fractures, also was eating badly, running on hard surfaces,
doing a 20 miler every week and was kinda big (190b pounds). I think these
were all factors.
I do not know if you are "pron" to stress fractures because you got them once.
Could have been lots of things, maybe you raced when you were not ready. When
you are FULLY recovered go back to your training and be careful and I'll bet
you'll be fine. Wear your orthotics and new supportive shoes. Run on soft
surfaces, I use mountain bike trails. Stretch. Don't run hard when your
already sore. Listen to your body. I also started biking alot more and
running less, my running times are still steadily improving. The key I think
for you now is to recover FULLY and start running again slowly and shortly at
first and work you way up a little at a time, bike and swim more. I believe
attention to diet could be very helpful also. I got stress fractures about 2
years ago and ignored them, ended up with a broken femur, knee and tibia, badly
broken. I am now running 25-30 miles a week and biking alot with no (unusual)
pains for the first time in years. If anyone is "pron" to fractures it is me
the way my leg split wide open with little provocation. Yet I have been
careful and am continuing with my dreams and goals and am sure you will also be
able to do the same.
the orthotics and supportive shoes ahould really correct the
excessive pronation, if they aren't I would get your biochemics checked
out, to see if the orthotics you are using ar eright for you (are they
prescription or off the shelve?)
You don't mention where the stress fracture is? If you are worried, I
would get a bone density scan done. Weak bones are not just a problem
for women. Are you eating enough? Getting enough calcium? Weight
bearing exercise (i.e. running) should be good for you if your bones
are a bit weak.
