(HealthDay News) -- A stress fracture occurs from overuse, when muscles become too weak to absorb the continued stress of physical activity, causing a small crack in a bone.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers these suggestions to help prevent a stress fracture:

• When embarking on a new sport or exercise plan, be sure to increase your activity gradually, not all at once.
• Try cross training and varying your exercise routine, rather than doing the same exercises each day.
• Eat healthy foods, especially those rich in calcium and vitamin D.
• Invest in good equipment, such as new running shoes with plenty of support.
• If you start to have any swelling or pain, give yourself a break with a few days of rest. If pain persists, see a doctor.