Stressed out: finding the optimal loading strategy for tibial and metatarsal bone stress injuries

Treating bone stress injuries usually involves a period of reduced weight-bearing and immobilization. However, bones benefit from bearing weight. Nicolaas van Dijk explores the benefits of early and optimal loading, leading to less time off from exercise and running. Between one to two-thirds of competitive cross-country and long-distance runners have a history of bone stress injury (BSI)(1,2). Bone stress injury classification is based on the location and risk of progres