The metatarsal bones, which are the long bones in the foot that link the ankle and the toes together can be affected by a stress fracture. A stress fracture is considered a hairline fracture and generally happens from repetitive motion. People who frequently participate in running and jumping activities may be prone to getting stress fractures. It can also happen from increasing speed and distance too quickly. Additionally, people with bone conditions such as osteoporosis may easily develop stress fractures, which may be common among people with a nervous disorder caused by diabetes. The pain often begins as a constant achy feeling, which many people ignore. An increase in the pain level may push the patient to seek expert medical attention so an X-ray can be performed. Once diagnosed, treatment can begin with temporarily stopping the activity that caused the stress fracture and wearing a protective boot for mobility. If you have endured a stress fracture, it is suggested that you visit a chiropodist who can offer you the correct treatment options.
A stress fracture often requires medical attention as it can progress and worsen over time. Please consult with one of the chiropodists from Complete Family Footcare & Therapy. Our clinicians will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
A stress fracture refers to a fine crack in a bone. This type of fracture is especially common in the feet, as they often endure repetitive pressure from daily activities such as walking or running. Stress fractures occur when the affected bone can not support the load being placed on it. Stress fractures in the foot can occur in any bone, but often affect the metatarsal bones which connect the toes to the rest of the foot, the heel bone, or the navicular bone on the top of the foot.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a stress fracture may include:
Deep, dull pain
Sharp, localized pain
Intermittent pain
Tenderness
Weakness
Swelling
Bruising
Changes in the biomechanics of the foot
Diagnosis
Stress fractures in the foot are diagnosed via medical history and a physical exam. You may also need to have diagnostic imaging tests like X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, bone scans, or an ultrasound performed to confirm the diagnosis and to rule out any other problems.
Treatment
Nonsurgical treatment options include resting, icing, compressing and elevating the affected foot, taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory pain medications, modifying your footwear, wearing a cast, and using crutches. Certain types of foot fractures, such as navicular fractures, respond poorly to nonsurgical treatment and may need surgery to fully heal.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
