BACKGROUND: Occupational stress fractures are reported among athletes, soldiers, ballet dancers, and in connection with shoveling. METHODS: A literature search on occupational stress fractures was performed. The biomechanical stress in association with special lifting tasks was estimated. RESULTS: A 59-year-old male welder presented with a stress fracture of the left distal tibia and fibula in connection with heavy lifting. The object was in front and lifted while he partly stood on one leg, which was rotated during the lifting. There was no considerable previous exposure to heavy lifting. CONCLUSION: It is likely, that this stress fracture was the result of strain on tibia and fibula through this composite lifting operation.