Stress Fractures
A stress fracture is an injury caused by overuse. When the muscles in the foot become tired, they cannot absorb shock as well. In result, the bones begin to absorb the stress of the body weight and can break or crack. Stress fractures usually occur from repetitive activities performed on hard surfaces, or from wearing non-cushioned footwear as well increased duration of physical activity.
Most stress fractures of the foot occur in the metatarsals. Activities such as running on pavement, treadmills, marching in the military or in band practice can all stress fractures. Even falls from heights can predispose someone to a stress fracture. Athletes are the most common to get stress fractures.
Women become more likely to get stress fractures as they age due to the overall decrease in bone mass as compared to men.
Usually stress fractures only hurt with activity. Once the person gets off their feet, the pain oftentimes goes away.
Stress fractures are usually diagnosed with x-rays. Usually sign of a stress fracture show up approximately 10-14 days after the initial injury. So don’t be surprised if nothing is seen on xray shortly after the injury. Sometimes MRI or CT scan is needed to validate a stress fracture when not clearly seen on x-ray.
The best treatment for stress fractures is rest. Stress fractures take approximately 2 months to heal. If someone with a stress fracture begins aggressive activity on the hurt foot too early, they may predispose themselves to a severe fracture which would involve surgery to correct.
To prevent stress fractures, it is important to maintain a healthy diet, use proper shoegear, and give yourself a chance to rest after prolonged workouts. Also, increase activity gradually. You will get into trouble if you try to do too much too quickly.
I>f you think you have a stress fracture, but aren’t quite sure, please contact a podiatrist, such as Dr. Kory Williams or Dr. Eric Silvers. At Advanced Foot & Ankle Center, we are professionally trained in handling these injuries and providing you with the best care in all of DFW. Please call 972-542-2155 for an appointment today.
