Stress fractures are a common injury, particularly for athletes and active individuals. This article will delve into what stress fractures are, what causes them, which bones are most affected, and how they are diagnosed and treated.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of a stress fracture or want to ensure your feet and ankles are in top shape, don’t wait to get the care you need. Contact Bluebonnet Foot and Ankle Institute in Austin, Texas, to schedule an appointment with our expert team today!
A stress fracture is a small crack or break in a bone that occurs from repetitive force or overuse. Unlike an acute fracture, which typically results from a single traumatic event, stress fractures develop gradually over time due to constant stress placed on a specific bone.
This condition commonly affects the foot and ankle, which are constantly engaged in physical activity, making them susceptible to stress injuries.
Stress fractures in the foot and ankle develop when the bone is subjected to repeated or excessive stress that exceeds its ability to repair itself.
The most common cause is increased physical activity, such as intense training or sudden changes in an exercise program. Other risk factors include improper footwear, poor bone density, and conditions that affect how weight is distributed on the feet, such as flat feet or high arches.
Athletes involved in running, dancing, or jumping sports are particularly prone to develop stress fractures, as these activities place considerable strain on the lower leg and foot bones.
The bones most commonly affected by stress fractures in the foot and ankle include the metatarsal bones, which form the front part of the foot. The second metatarsal is particularly vulnerable due to the repetitive pressure it endures during activities like running.
The heel bone (calcaneus) can also develop stress fractures, especially in athletes who engage in high-impact exercises. Additionally, the tibia (shin bone) and fibula (a bone located beside the tibia) in the lower leg are often injured when excessive force is placed on them over time.
The most common symptoms of a stress fracture include localized pain and tenderness at the fracture site. The pain typically worsens with activity and improves with rest. You may also notice swelling around the injured area, especially in the foot or ankle.
Unlike a sudden acute fracture, stress fractures cause gradually increasing discomfort rather than sharp pain from the outset. The affected area may be sensitive to touch, and some individuals may experience bruising. In severe cases, difficulty walking or bearing weight may occur.
Stress fractures are diagnosed through a combination of your medical history, a physical exam, and imaging tests. A healthcare professional, particularly one specializing in sports medicine, may suspect a stress fracture based on your symptoms and activity level.
To confirm the diagnosis, your doctor may use bone scans, MRI, or X-rays. X-rays may not show a stress fracture early on, as the fracture is too small to detect. Bone scans and MRIs are more effective at identifying stress fractures before they show up on an X-ray. Your doctor may also check your bone density to look for any underlying conditions that could contribute to the fracture.
Treatment for a stress fracture typically focuses on reducing the stress on the affected bone to allow it time to heal. The first step is often rest, which means temporarily reducing physical activity that stresses the injured bone.
In most cases, a walking boot or cast may be recommended to immobilize the foot and ankle. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain and reduce swelling.
In some cases, your healthcare provider may suggest a physical activity modification or the use of crutches to keep weight off the injured area. If a stress fracture does not heal properly, more advanced treatments, such as surgery, may be required to repair the fracture site.
Recovery from a stress fracture can take several weeks to months, depending on the severity and location of the injury. The bone needs time to heal and return to its normal strength before full activity can resume.
Most stress fractures heal with appropriate care and rest. It is essential to follow your doctor’s advice and avoid returning to full physical activity too quickly, as doing so may cause a relapse or a stress reaction (a precursor to a full stress fracture).
MLS laser therapy can also be used to aid in the recovery of foot and ankle stress fractures by reducing pain, inflammation, and swelling. By improving circulation and stimulating cellular repair, it helps support your body’s natural healing process.
During the recovery period, your doctor may recommend a gradual return to activity to help rebuild strength and prevent re-injury. In some cases, an exercise program that focuses on strengthening surrounding muscles may be introduced to aid the healing process.
Preventing stress fractures involves a combination of careful training practices and proper footwear. Gradually increasing the intensity of physical activity and allowing adequate rest between workouts can help prevent overuse injuries.
Additionally, wearing shoes that provide proper support and cushioning can significantly reduce the risk of stress fractures, especially during high-impact activities.
If you suspect you have a stress fracture or are dealing with an injury that won’t heal, don’t wait—take action today! Our team of specialists at Bluebonnet Foot and Ankle Institute in Austin, Texas, is here to help. Schedule an appointment with us today and take the first step toward better foot health!
Medically reviewed by Liza Chabokrow, DPM
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