Athletes may often experience stress fractures, which may be a result of the bones enduring excessive strain. This is a common occurrence among runners who often ignore the discomfort that comes from high intensity running. Other factors contributing to stress fractures may include having a low body weight or a diet that lacks essential nutrients. Pain and swelling will generally accompany this type of fracture, and will gradually worsen with continued activity. When treating a stress fracture, it’s crucial to discontinue the activity that caused this condition from developing. Elevating and resting the foot is essential for proper healing, in addition to wrapping the foot or ankle to reduce swelling and bruising. If the foot has shown little or no improvement after the appropriate time has passed for proper healing, an actual break may have occurred. Please consult with a podiatrist for a correct diagnosis and to determine the best treatment for stress fractures.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Sutera and Jones Surgical Podiatry. 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 feel free to contact one of our offices located in Media, Glen Mills, Riddle Memorial Hospital, and Concordville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.