| dc.description.abstract | Background: Stress fractures of the lower extremity are common injuries among athletes of all levels, especially elite distance runners; however, the potential risk factors are highly debated. Objective: To identify whether bone mineral density (BMD), Vitamin D levels, and perceived exertion are prospectively associated with stress fractures risk among NCAA Division I collegiate cross country runners. Design: Retrospective Cohort Study Methods: A total of 17 athletes between 18 and 23 years old were recruited. Questionnaires assessed injury rate, menstrual and training history, nutritional knowledge, supplementation, and perceived exertion. Bone mineral density (BMD) of total body and legs were assessed using dual X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). Vitamin D levels were collected via a serum blood test performed prior to the 2015 season. Among the 17 athletes who completed the questionnaire, DEXA scan, and vitamin D test, 10 sustained a stress fracture diagnosed by magnetic resonance imaging, giving an incidence rate (95% confidence intervals) of 58 % of the study population sustaining a stress fracture during the 2015 season. Results and Conclusions: BMD and vitamin D showed no statistically significant correlations to stress fracture rates in the population. However, training load was shown to have an indirect effect on stress fracture rates, indicating that there may be a psychological component related to the increased risk for stress fractures. Further research on this population with a larger sample size and examination of more contributing factors could be used to confirm the findings of this study. | |
