Medial malleolar stress fracture in an adolescent athlete.

Abstract

A stress fracture of the medial malleolus in adolescent athletes is a rare condition with poorly defined outcomes. Proper management requires early recognition, with treatment directed toward the athlete's safe return to their sport. Failure to assess and manage the fracture properly can result in significant complications, including fracture progression, delayed healing, nonunion, and chronic pain. We present the case of a medial malleolar stress fracture in a 14-year-old football player, who was successfully able to return to competition 4 weeks after surgical treatment. We have also provided a review of the published data regarding the management of these injuries and recommendations for returning athletes to competition.