What is a common cause for hairline or stress fractures?

Hairline or stress fractures frequently occur due to repetitive motions. These types of fractures arise when the body experiences a consistent level of stress over time, particularly in weight-bearing bones. Activities that involve repetitive impact, such as running, jumping, or certain sports, can lead to this condition as the bone does not have adequate time to heal between the stress imposed on it. Unlike fractures caused by severe trauma or acute accidents, which typically result from a single, significant event, stress fractures develop gradually, making repetitive stress the key factor. Understanding this can help in identifying risk factors for athletes and individuals engaging in repetitive activities.