What is necessary for a 16-year-old female to return to basketball after a tibial stress fracture?

To successfully return to basketball after a tibial stress fracture, a normal physical examination of the affected area is crucial. This examination assesses the patient's injury site for any signs of tenderness, swelling, or instability that could suggest inadequate healing. A thorough assessment ensures that the bone has healed sufficiently and that there are no lingering issues that would impede the athlete's ability to perform and risk further injury.

While a signed clearance from a physician is certainly important, it typically follows the physical examination. Similarly, achieving a full range of motion in the injured limb and any imaging like an MRI can support the case for returning to sport, but these elements are often evaluated during the physical examination. Ensuring that the area is normal on exam provides a more immediate and direct assessment of readiness to return to activities like basketball.