If the shoe fits... should you just wear it? A complete calcaneal stress fracture in a female recreational runner

Shoe choice by runners may follow trends related to purported generalised benefits rather than following an individual risk- benefit analysis. The benefits and risks related to minimalist footwear for running has been a much debated topic. The authors report a case of a complete calcaneal stress fracture in an otherwise healthy female recreational runner in the first three weeks following her conversion from a traditional cushioned running shoe to a minimalist type of running shoe. Clinicians should be aware of the potential added bone stress with reduced cushioning and the potential risks in transitioning to new footwear.

Importance of screening in physical therapy: vertebral fracture of thoracolumbar junction in a recreational runner

Running is one of the most popular sports worldwide. Studies suggest that 11%–85% of recreational runners have at least one running-related injury (RRI) each year, resulting in a reduction or interruption in training. A high risk for running-related injuries (RRIs) represents an important inconvenience counterbalancing the beneficial effects of running. RRIs primarily affect the joints of the lower limb and lumbar spine. Noteworthy, in some cases, the clinical presentation of signs and symptoms is confusing and may hide serious conditions; thus, clinicians have to pay special attention when potential factors arise, such as the presence of red flags. As reported in this case report, patients can present with low back pain (LBP) as a primary problem, mimicking a red flag such as a fracture of the spine. The aim of this case report was to describe a case of a recreational runner presenting with LBP as the sole symptom of an underlying thoracolumbar fracture.