A femoral stress fracture is a tiny crack in the femur (thigh bone) caused by repeated stress or overuse, rather than a single traumatic event. It’s more common in runners, military recruits, and athletes who do lots of repetitive loading, especially if their training ramps up too quickly. The pain tends to build up gradually over time.

An analogy…

Imagine bending a paperclip back and forth, if you keep repeating the motion without giving it time to rest, it starts to crack. That’s what happens to bone under repetitive stress without recovery time.

What are other names that a femoral stress fracture can be called?

Stress Fracture of the Femur

What causes a femoral stress fracture?

The femur bears a lot of force with every step, especially during high-impact activities like running or jumping. If the muscles and bones are overloaded repeatedly, and recovery isn’t adequate, the bone begins to fatigue and develop small cracks. These are called stress fractures. If left untreated, they can worsen and become full fractures.

What are the signs and symptoms of a femoral stress fracture?

• Dull, aching pain in the groin or upper thigh
• Pain that worsens with running or weight-bearing, and eases with rest
• Pain that gradually increases over days or weeks
• Pain with hopping or single-leg loading
• In more severe cases, night pain or pain at rest
• Limping or altered walking in advanced stages

What tests are used to diagnose a femoral stress fracture?

Palpation: May reveal deep tenderness in the groin or upper thigh.

Single-leg hop or fulcrum test: Often reproduces pain.

How long does a femoral stress fracture take to heal?

Early-stage femoral stress fractures may heal in 6 to 8 weeks. Moderate to advanced stress fractures may take 10 to 12 weeks. Return to sport typically takes 12+ weeks, depending on healing and strength recovery.

How does a femoral shaft fracture happen?

• Sudden increase in training volume or intensity
• High-impact repetitive activity
• Poor nutrition, low Vitamin D or calcium
• Weak glutes or core, leading to poor load distribution
• Improper footwear or hard training surfaces

What treatment can help a femoral stress fracture?

• Complete rest from impact activity
• Gradual weight-bearing progression once cleared by a practitioner
• Strength training for glutes, core, and hip stabilisers
• Nutritional support to address any bone health deficiencies
• Biomechanical retraining

What exercises or stretches can I do for a femoral stress fracture?

• Non-weight-bearing strength exercises
• Glute activation drills
• Swimming or stationary bike
• Balance and proprioception exercises
• Gradual return-to-run program over 4–8 weeks

What products can help with a femoral stress fracture?

• KT Pilates Band Pack
• KT Trigger Ball