Diagnosing Femoral Stress Fractures: What Tests Are Used?
Diagnosing Femoral Stress Fractures: What Tests Are Used?
Why It Matters
Accurate diagnosis of femoral stress fractures is crucial for effective treatment. Learn about the tests used to identify these hidden injuries.
Contents
- Initial Imaging Techniques
- Advanced Diagnostic Tools
- Other Diagnostic Options
Initial Imaging Techniques
Plain radiographs are often the first step in diagnosing femoral stress fractures. They can detect fractures, but early stages might not show up. If symptoms persist and radiographs are inconclusive, further testing is required to confirm the diagnosis.
Advanced Diagnostic Tools
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the gold standard for diagnosing femoral stress fractures. It provides detailed images that reveal both stress reactions and fractures. MRIs are especially useful in detecting fractures early, even before they appear on x-rays.
Other Diagnostic Options
Although less common now, bone scans can be used to diagnose stress fractures. They involve radioactive tracers to highlight bone metabolism, revealing areas of increased activity typical of stress injuries. Ultrasound is an emerging tool but requires further research to confirm its effectiveness.
FAQs
What's the first test for diagnosis?
Plain radiographs are first used.
Why use an MRI?
It detects early stage fractures.
Are bone scans still used?
Yes, but they're less common now.
Can ultrasound diagnose fractures?
It may help, but more research is needed.
Wrapping Up
Early and accurate diagnosis is vital for effective treatment of femoral stress fractures.
Additional References
- Shin AY, Morin WD, Gorman JD, et al. The superiority of MRI in differentiating hip pain causes. Am J Sports Med 1996; 24:168.
- Wright AA, Hegedus EJ, Lenchik L, et al. Diagnostic Accuracy of Imaging Modalities for Stress Fractures. Am J Sports Med 2016; 44:255.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.