What is a characteristic feature of a stress fracture?

A stress fracture is also known as a hairline fracture, and this term is used to describe the fine cracks that develop in the bone over time due to repetitive stress or overuse, rather than a single traumatic event. Unlike more severe fractures that may result from sudden impact, a stress fracture occurs gradually and often presents without obvious signs on initial imaging.

Stress fractures may not always be clearly visible on X-rays, especially in the early stages. Often, these fractures can be more readily detected through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or bone scans. They do not involve complete breakage of the bone structure; instead, they manifest as small, partial fractures. Additionally, stress fractures are primarily linked to chronic stress rather than acute trauma, distinguishing their origin from other types of fractures that typically stem from sudden impacts.