Non-Operative — Stress Fracture (Non-Operative)

Sanford Health

Weight-Bearing

Modified WB per risk/grade; cast/boot/pneumatic splint x 2-4 wks; progress once pain-free with palpation and ADLs

Key Restrictions

Rest from pain-provoking activities; high-risk fractures may require surgery; activity increase no more than 15-20%/week; soreness rules must be followed; low-risk low-grade avg 61 days RTP, high-risk avg 131-153 days

Timeline & Phases

4 phases: Acute (until pain-free with palpation and ADLs), Subacute (pain-free 30-min walk), Advanced Strengthening and Return to Running, Return to Full Activity. Total highly variable by fracture risk and grade

Published

03/2025