Identification of Predictive Risk Factors for the Development of a Stress Fracture Within 6 Months in Highly Trained Female Long-Distance Runners: A Prospective Cohort Study

Our study demonstrated that highly trained female long-distance runners with lumbar spine bone mineral density <81.1% are at increased risk of a stress fracture within 6 months and should reduce their high-impact sports activities to avoid developing a stress fracture. The present study may provide meaningful information, suggesting that DXA measurements could be a useful screening tool in routine medical examinations to predict stress fractures in female long-distance runners, which may assist preventive programs or protocols.