Concerns About a Possible Sacral Stress Fracture Recurrence
In October, I received a diagnosis of a sacral stress fracture while preparing for a marathon, which prevented me from running ever since. I began physical therapy in January and incorporated stationary cycling and strength training at the gym starting in February. Approximately two months ago, I added using the stair master to my routine. Recently, while playing pickleball, I experienced a strange zinging sensation in the affected area, but I dismissed it at the time. Now, I occasionally feel discomfort in that region when I take walks, raising my concerns about a potential re-injury. Has anyone else faced a similar situation? Additionally, it’s worth mentioning that I lost my menstrual cycle during my marathon training, but I have since regained a regular cycle as of January and have also noticed weight gain. My lab results are all within the normal range now.
Answers (1)
7/9/2025, 1:20:35 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about your sacral stress fracture, especially with the recent sensations and discomfort you're experiencing. Here's a breakdown of your situation and some actionable steps you can take.
Main Points
- Past Injury Monitoring: It's important to monitor any signs of discomfort, especially linked to a previous injury.
- Physical Activity Adjustment: Recent activities might have contributed to the sensations you're feeling.
- Reinforcing Recovery: Focus on strategies to strengthen and support your recovery.
Explanation
Your history of a sacral stress fracture means that the area is sensitive to stress and strain, especially if you recently increased your activity level. The "zinging" sensation and discomfort with walking could indicate strain on the previously injured area, but it doesn't necessarily mean you've re-injured it. Changes in activity, like playing pickleball, can put different stresses on your body. Your menstrual cycle returning to regularity and overall health improvements are positive signs, but weight gain and possible hormonal effects could also play a role in how you feel physically.
Next Steps
-
Modify Activities: Gauge your comfort level with current exercises. If you're experiencing discomfort while walking or during specific activities, it may help to reduce intensity or volume temporarily. Consider low-impact exercises that don't irritate the area further.
-
Implement Recovery Strategies: After physical activities, apply ice to the affected area if you feel discomfort to help reduce any inflammation. Gentle stretching and mobility exercises around the pelvis and lower back may also help.
-
Listen to Your Body: Keep a journal to document when you feel discomfort, noting the activity just before it. This can help determine if specific movements are contributing to your symptoms.
-
Strengthen the Area: Continue physical therapy, focusing on strengthening the muscles that support your pelvis and lower back. Your therapist can customize a program to safely increase your tolerance for activities over time.
-
Rest and Reassess: If discomfort persists, allow your body more time to rest. It's essential to listen to discomfort signals; if it doesn't improve or worsens, consider revisiting your rehabilitation approach.
By prioritizing these steps, you'll give your body the best chance to recover fully and safely return to your previous activity levels. Let me know if you need further details or assistance!
Related Questions
Concerns Regarding Granulocyte Levels and Joint Pain
I’m a woman in my thirties who neither drinks alcohol nor smokes. Recently, I’ve been experiencing persistent pain in my joints, discomfort in my long bones, and a general feeling of fatigue. During a recent visit to urgent care, a complete blood count (CBC) revealed that my immature granulocyte (IG) levels were at 0.4. Additionally, my platelet count was elevated, and my mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) was low. I haven’t had any illnesses, such as a cold, that could explain this inflammation. Since my previous primary care physician has left their practice, I’m hesitant to return to urgent care. I would like to know how concerning my results should be and what specific issues I should discuss with my new primary care provider, especially considering that I’m dealing with daily pain.
Concern About a Lump
At 17 years old and designated female at birth, I've been diagnosed with exercise-induced asthma, although I suspect this might not be accurate since my rescue inhaler hasn't provided any relief. For over two months now, I've been experiencing some heart-related issues, with my symptoms becoming increasingly severe. Previously, I was prescribed atomoxetine (60mg daily) and melatonin (5mg nightly), but my primary care physician suggested I discontinue these medications several weeks ago to eliminate them as potential contributors to my new symptoms. I'm still using my albuterol inhaler (90mg as necessary), but I haven’t had to use it for a few months now. I recognize that all of this may not be particularly relevant, but it helps provide context. It’s currently very late—around 2 AM—as I'm writing this, on a note regarding something I noticed yesterday afternoon. I discovered what appears to be a lump on my chin. Initially, I brushed it off, thinking it might just be the beginning of an acne breakout. However, I'm second-guessing that assumption now. At first, it felt warm and tender, but it seems to have grown larger, turned red, and become increasingly painful. Perhaps I'm imagining its growth, but even a friend remarked that it seemed to be getting bigger. The lump feels somewhat firm, although it does shift if I touch it. I plan to include a picture in the comments for reference. I already have a follow-up appointment scheduled for Thursday regarding my heart concerns, and I’m considering mentioning this lump if it’s still present by that time. What do you think?
Persistent Discomfort in the Chest
I am a 15-year-old female, standing at 5'5" and weighing 105 pounds. I don't engage in smoking, drinking, or using any kind of substances. For about four years now, I have been experiencing discomfort in my chest, located directly over my heart area. The pain is sharp, and it tends to intensify whenever I move my chest in a particular manner or when I lay down. Typically, this sensation lasts for approximately 30 seconds, and I have not noticed any accompanying symptoms. On average, it occurs once or twice weekly. I've consulted with several different doctors during this time, and they have conducted an EKG which showed normal and even outstanding results. Consequently, I chose to overlook it, assuming it wasn’t a matter of significant concern. However, at this moment, the pain persists and has now lasted for over an hour. It flares up whenever I move in certain ways or take a deep breath. This ongoing discomfort is beginning to cause me some anxiety, particularly affecting my ability to sleep. Could anyone shed some light on what might be causing this? Should I be worried? Thank you!
Concerns About Indentations in Toenails
Hello there, I'm reaching out about my son who is 2 years old and weighs 11 kg. He has a background of eczema and is allergic to several foods like nuts, peanuts, eggs, and legumes, in addition to reacting to foods with high histamine levels. I've noticed that his big toenails have an irregular texture, featuring prominent indents. Their appearance prompted me to do some online research, which hinted that these changes might stem from nutritional deficiencies or possibly eczema affecting the toenails. Interestingly, his skin has improved significantly—so much so that we haven't needed to use steroid creams for several months and rely solely on moisturizing his skin. Should I consider seeking professional advice regarding his toenails? I strive to provide him with a balanced diet that includes whole grains, pine nuts, pumpkin seeds, salmon, beef, and a wide range of fruits and vegetables that are suitable for him. Additionally, he takes a multivitamin gummy every day and is still breastfeeding, even though my milk supply is limited. Thank you for your help!
Exploring Methotrexate in the Treatment of Reactive Arthritis
Can methotrexate be beneficial for someone dealing with reactive arthritis? Is this medication intended for lifelong use, or is a brief course sufficient? I'm a 27-year-old male, weighing 70 kilograms and standing at 6 feet, without any other medical conditions, currently experiencing symptoms of reactive arthritis.