Longitudinal stress leg fracture in the elderly

Among longitudinal stress fractures, tibial fracture was described in 1960 by Devas in the UK, and is still an uncommon occurrence. To our knowledge, longitudinal stress fracture of the fibula has not been described previously, but only the transversal type. Patients complain of pain in the tibial or fibular side of the ankle, whereas the X-rays are normal. However, unusual physical activity is noted in all patients, and the diagnosis is that of a suspected stress fracture. Bone scan shows quite widespread increased radionuclear intake. CT scan shows the stress fracture. Restriction of activity for one month results in complete disappearance of pain in all cases.