Femoral Neck Stress Fracture Complicated by Deep Venous Thrombosis and Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: A Case Report

    April 2009 in “ PM&R
    Alicia B. Feldman, Deborah Saint‐Phard
    TLDR A multidisciplinary approach is crucial for treating stress fractures and related complications in athletes.
    This case report detailed a 37-year-old female triathlete with a femoral neck stress fracture complicated by deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). The patient, who had osteopenia and secondary amenorrhea, developed a stress fracture after intensive training. Despite treatment with calcium, vitamin D, and oral contraceptives, she experienced a DVT three days after being non-weight bearing, which is unusual. The patient was diagnosed with CRPS type I, characterized by pain, temperature changes, and discoloration in the affected limb. Treatment included anticoagulation, bone stimulators, electrical muscle stimulation, and sympathetic blocks, which helped alleviate symptoms. The report highlighted the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to treating the female athlete triad and stress fractures, as well as the need for vigilance regarding DVT in non-weight bearing patients.
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