How do tension-side and compression-side femoral neck stress fractures differ in management?

Doctor’s answer

Superior femoral neck stress fractures (tension-side) carry a high risk of complete displacement and avascular necrosis due to distracting tensile forces, typically requiring urgent surgical internal fixation. Inferior femoral neck fractures (compression-side) are subjected to compressive forces; small, stable non-displaced fractures may be managed with strict non-weight-bearing crutches, though wide cortical involvement (>50%), symptom progression, or joint effusion also warrants surgical evaluation.

This content is for education. Diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation require an individual assessment by a sports medicine specialist.