HI, I had an accident early August and injured my right tibia. X-ray didn't show anything, so I kept walking, even though it would hurt. Getting MRI approved from insurance (Aetna) took too long, which delayed the diagnosis, but after about 1.5-2 months we found out it was a stress fracture.
My orthopedic put me on crutches for 5-6 weeks, and said we may need surgery if it doesn't heal by then. How common is surgery for a stress fracture? Should I wait longer for it to heal by itself? Also, is a rod down the tibia a complicated surgery, or something with very low risks? How long does it take to be back on feet (just walking) after the surgery? I have an important conference to attend at the end of November, and I have to make sure that if I won't be able to fly, then I should prepare someone else for it.
Thanks