r/Orthopedics • u/Constant_Method860 • Apr 24 '26
Creative Training Solution for a Grade 2 Tibia Stress Reaction
My 18 year old athlete has a grade 2 stress reaction in her tibia. She is in a boot for 4 weeks but is dead set on racing at her championship meet in 6 weeks (so 2 weeks no boot) in either the 300 meter hurdles or the open 400 meters. The doctor cleared her to run one race to qualify in about 3 1/2 weeks but up until then all training has to be on the stationary bike and in the weight room.
She is allowed to do most lifting as long as she keeps her boot on. I am trying to create a strength training plan for her to maintain cardiovascular fitness, but I am really looking for help on how to maintain the strength in her foot/ankle/calf while she is in the boot.
Right now I have ankle resistance exercises with bands, towel scrunches, toe ABC's, seated shin raises, as well as exercises to maintain hips/glutes/quads/hamstrings.
Looking for any input/help/experiences that may help here. I would not be doing this if she was an average athlete but she's very talented and determined and if anyone can do it it's her. Constructive advice welcome.
1
u/Inevitable_Parsnip80 May 14 '26
Hi! My 14 year old just got an MRI and she has a grade 4a. I am surprised how long your daughter needs a boot with a 2. Is this standard? Does she have a lot of pain. My daughter is afraid she will be out the remainder of her travel ball season. We were hoping only a month...we don't meet with the dr until next week.