A stress fracture in the foot is a small crack in a bone caused by repeated pressure over time. These injuries often develop when the foot absorbs more force than the bones can handle. Many stress fractures occur in athletes who run, jump, or change direction frequently in sports such as basketball, tennis, and gymnastics. They can also affect runners and people who suddenly increase the intensity, duration, or frequency of exercise. The crack in the bone may be extremely small, sometimes as thin as a strand of hair, but it can still cause significant pain. Other risk factors include poor footwear, changes in training surfaces, weak bones, or abnormal foot structure that places extra pressure on certain areas. Stress fractures most often affect the metatarsals, which are the long bones that connect the toes to the midfoot. A podiatrist can evaluate symptoms, examine the foot, and use imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis and guide proper care. If you have symptoms of a stress fracture, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.
Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use. The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.
What Are Stress Fractures?
Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:
- Runners
- People affected with Osteoporosis
- Tennis or basketball players
- Gymnasts
- High impact workouts
Symptoms
Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Duryea, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
