The British Military is renowned for its rigorous training programs and demanding physical exercises and these demands can often take a significant toll on the body.
Particularly if the training program does not allow for the service man or women to build up to the requisite level of fitness safely, injury can result including in the form of stress fractures.
What is a Stress Fracture?
A stress fracture is a small crack in a bone, often caused by repetitive application of force and/or overuse.
In the Military, these fractures typically affect the lower limbs, including the shin, foot, ankle, pelvis and hips. They develop over time, typically from repeated stress, such as on long marches, running and carrying heavy loads, activities which are all fundamental to military life.
Unlike in the case of sudden, traumatic injuries, stress fractures may not be immediately apparent.
The symptoms typically start as a dull ache which worsens with continued activity. Over time, if left untreated, this can lead to more severe fractures and even permanent damage to the bone.
Causes of Stress Fractures in the UK Military
The primary cause of stress fractures in the military is the high-intensity physical training that personnel undergo during basic training and beyond. Some key factors that contribute to the development of stress fractures include:
- Repetitive Impact: The constant pounding of running on hard surfaces or carrying heavy packs for extended periods can place immense strain on bones, particularly in the legs and feet.
- Inappropriate Footwear: Military boots are designed for durability and support, but if they don’t fit properly or lack adequate cushioning, they can increase the risk of stress fractures.
- Overtraining: Pushing the body too hard, too quickly, without proper rest or recovery time, can lead to stress fractures. This is especially common during intense boot camp training or preparation for physically demanding exercises.
- Pre-existing Conditions: Individuals with certain medical conditions or deficiencies, such as osteoporosis or low bone density, are more vulnerable to stress fractures.
- Environmental Factors: Training in tough conditions, such as rugged terrain, can increase the risk of overuse injuries.
- Failure to tailor training / exercises: All too often the military fails to take into consideration the sex , age and physical strength and fitness of individuals when planning training and exercises, leading to some being required to undertake physical exercise beyond their ability and risking injury.
Symptoms of Stress Fractures
Stress fractures develop gradually, and their symptoms can often be mistaken for other types of injury. However, there are some key signs to look out for:
- Pain during or after physical activity: Initially, the pain may subside with rest but will return when activity resumes.
- Swelling: This can occur around the affected area, often in the foot, shin, or ankle.
- Tenderness: The area around the fracture may be sensitive to the touch.
- Changes in gait: Due to pain, serving personnel may alter their walking or running style, which could lead to further complications.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the injury from worsening and help you return to duty more quickly.
The Impact of Stress Fractures on Military Personnel
In the Military, physical fitness and readiness are paramount, and any injury that affects mobility can have a serious impact on the careers of serving personnel.
Stress fractures can lead to long periods of recovery, sometimes requiring time off from active duty. The physical limitations can also prevent military personnel from participating in essential training exercises, missions, or deployments, which can affect their progression and future opportunities within the military.
For many, the mental toll of not being able to perform at their best can be just as challenging as the physical pain. Soldiers may feel isolated or concerned about their future in the military, especially if the injury affects their ability to serve.
Bringing a Personal Injury Claim for Stress Fractures in the UK Military
If you’ve sustained a stress fracture during your service in the British Military, and you believe that the injury resulted from negligence or failure to meet proper standards of care, you may be eligible to make a personal injury claim.
Our Military Personal Injury team here at Gorvins Solicitors deals exclusively with military injury and serious sports injury claims. We have the knowledge, experience and contacts to help you not only maximise your compensation but also to facilitate rehabilitation and financial advice.
If you would like to discuss any potential claim for yourself or a loved one/friend with Gary or Katie. Please call us on 0161 930 5240 (Gary), 0161 930 5320 (Katie) or email gary.boyd@gorvins.com and/or katie.fletcher@gorvins.com .