Sports fractures encompass a broad spectrum of bone injuries sustained during athletic participation or high-impact physical activity. These fractures may occur as a result of acute traumatic events such as collisions, falls, or direct blows, or develop gradually as stress fractures due to repetitive mechanical loading exceeding the bone’s adaptive capacity. Sports fractures require specialized orthopaedic evaluation, as management must balance anatomical healing with timely and safe return to activity.

Acute traumatic sports fractures often occur during contact sports or high-velocity activities and may involve the upper or lower extremities. These fractures can range from stable, minimally displaced injuries to complex, unstable patterns requiring surgical fixation. Patients typically present with immediate pain, swelling, deformity, and loss of function. Neurovascular assessment is critical to identify associated injuries.

Stress fractures represent overuse injuries resulting from repetitive microtrauma without adequate recovery. They are common in endurance athletes and often involve weight-bearing bones. Early symptoms may be subtle, presenting as activity-related pain that progresses to persistent discomfort if untreated. Delayed diagnosis increases the risk of complete fracture and prolonged recovery.

Orthopaedic assessment of sports fractures includes detailed injury history, examination, and imaging. Plain radiographs confirm fracture pattern and displacement, while advanced imaging may be required for stress fractures or complex injuries. Accurate classification guides treatment decisions and prognosis.

Management principles focus on restoring anatomical alignment, ensuring fracture stability, and promoting biological healing. Stable fractures may be managed conservatively with immobilization and activity modification. Unstable, displaced, or high-demand fractures often require surgical fixation to allow early mobilization and optimize functional outcomes.

Surgical management employs fixation techniques tailored to fracture location, sport demands, and patient-specific factors. The goal is to achieve stable fixation that permits early rehabilitation while minimizing complications such as malunion or joint stiffness.

Rehabilitation following sports fractures is a structured, phased process. Initial emphasis is placed on protecting the fracture site, followed by progressive loading, strength training, and sport-specific conditioning. Return-to-sport decisions are individualized and based on radiographic healing, functional recovery, and injury risk assessment.

Sports fractures require precise orthopaedic management to ensure complete healing, restore performance, and prevent re-injury. A comprehensive approach from diagnosis through rehabilitation is essential for optimal outcomes.