## Overview Incomplete or stress fractures are cracks that do not fully break the bone. They result from repetitive loading before the bone has adapted. They are common in racehorses and cause lameness that may be subtle. If training continues they can propagate to complete fracture. ## Causes Cyclical fatigue of bone. ## Diagnosis Clinical examination, radiographs, and scintigraphy for early lesions. ## Treatment Rest until radiographic healing. Modification of the training schedule on return. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good if rested before complete fracture occurs. ## Prevention Gradual introduction of high-speed work.
lameness after fast work; focal pain; radiographic stress fracture line; risk of progression if training continues
## Overview Incomplete or stress fractures are cracks that do not fully break the bone. They result from repetitive loading before the bone has adapted. They are common in racehorses and cause lameness that may be subtle. If training continues they can propagate to complete fracture. ## Causes Cyclical fatigue of bone. ## Diagnosis Clinical examination, radiographs, and scintigraphy for early lesions. ## Treatment Rest until radiographic healing. Modification of the training schedule on return. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good if rested before complete fracture occurs. ## Prevention Gradual introduction of high-speed work.
lameness after fast work; focal pain; radiographic stress fracture line; risk of progression if training continues