Synovial effusions at the knee as the inaugural manifestation of stress fracture of the proximal tibia.

Eight patients with an age ranging from 72 to 83 years, seen in an outpatient clinic over a one-year period for stress fractures of the proximal tibia responsible for acute knee pain and effusion were studied retrospectively. Plain roentgenograms were often normal at presentation but subsequently showed sclerosis of the proximal tibia. Radionuclide bone scanning was the most useful investigation for early diagnosis. Potential risk factors were advanced: age, genu varum or valgum, overweight and vitamin D deficiency. Stress fracture of the proximal tibia should be considered in elderly patients with knee pain, effusion and normal roentgenograms. Elimination of weight-bearing ensures healing of the fracture.