Most fractures happen as a result of trauma, such as a car accident or sports injury. A stress fracture results from long-term stress on a bone and is common in athletes who repeatedly jump or land on their feet. Common places for stress fractures are the feet and shins, because they support the body's weight during impact.
Stress fractures, if caught early enough, may require only rest in order to heal. More severe fractures, which are at risk for displacement or movement out of alignment, similar to a traumatic fracture, require a cast and crutches to take weight off the affected area.