Retrospective analysis of march fractures in the German Armed Forces in the years 1998 to 2000

Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the incidence/frequency of march fractures in the German Armed Forces in the years from 1998 to 2000. In particular, the age, length of service, distribution of the metatarsals and the occurrence of anthropometric risk factors were considered. Methods: At the Medico-statistical Institute of the German Armed Forces the records of soldiers, 191 cases with 204 fractures, with diagnosed march fractures were selected and analyzed. Results: 82% of the affected soldiers were between 19 and 22 years old. More than 50% of the fractures occurred within the first eight weeks of service. In about 64% the 3(rd) metatarsal was affected, in 25% the 2(nd) metatarsal and in only 11% of all cases the 4(th), 5(th), and 1(st) metatarsals. Soldiers were exempted from duty for an average of 26.5 days. No specific anthropometric risk factors were found to be connected with the occurrence of march fractures. Conclusion: March fractures in the German Armed Forces are non-predictable injuries of young and physically fit individuals; youth is not a protective factor. There is an increased risk for march fractures during the first weeks of military service. There appears to be no possibility for a screening.