AbstractThe problem of stress fractures, both in general and in association with military training, is briefly reviewed. The results of a retrospective survey of 109 radiographically confirmed cases at Commando Training Centre Royal Marines Lympstone occurring over a period of 26 months are presented. These comprised 57 cases of metatarsal stress fracture, 44 cases of tibial stress fracture, three cases in the fibula, two cases in the os calcis, two in the femoral neck, and one affecting the inferior pubic ramus.Some tentative conclusions regarding the aetiology, natural history and diagnosis of stress fractures are drawn: it is possible that increasing the average age of those undergoing commando training might reduce the incidence of stress fractures, but such a policy might well lead to other problems in training and should be advocated with caution. if at all. Otherwise no feasible suggestions for reducing the incidence can be made which are compatible with Service requirements.
