Maintenance of Aerobic Capacity During Recovery from Right Foot Jones Fracture: A Case Report

PURPOSEWe sought to evaluate the effectiveness of continued training with deep water running (DWR) on the healing process from a lower leg fracture in maintaining aerobic fitness. CASE SUMMARYAn elite male middle distance runner presented with a Jones fracture of the right foot. The patient opted for nonsurgical treatment. Non-weight-bearing immobilization in a cast proceeded for 14 weeks. The patient continued training by simulating land running and team land workouts with DWR. DWR was the principal mode of exercise through week 24. Physiological and race performance assessments noted a progressive and complete return to preinjury fitness and performance levels. DISCUSSIONDWR can be used by competitive runners during a rehabilitative period to maintain fitness and does not impede the healing process. In developing a DWR regimen, it should be noted that the exercise heart rate when working above the ventilatory threshold will be ∼ 12 bpm lower in water. RELEVANCEDWR may be feasible for maintenance of competitive edge during lower trunk injury rehabilitation.