[Fatigue fractures of the leg bones. Apropos of 19 cases]

The authors report non-traumatic fracture occurring in healthy bond, fatigue fractures of the leg, much less common than fatigue of the metatarsal bones. The authors report here 19 cases, characterised by periosteal apposition and a limited bony fissure which could only be demonstrated towards the second or third week. Its radiological appearance consisted of peri-osteal apposition and bony fissure, and is quite characteristic. However, it is not always obvious and, in some cases, a misdiagnosis of reticulosarcoma was made. It is treated by plaster immobilisation or simple rest and this leads to a cure without sequelae. Progressive and sufficiently prolonged physiotherapy permits recovery of the normal bony structure submitted to new stresses in intensity and duration and should prevent further fractures.