We’ve all heard the typical workout advice: “Listen to your body.” It’s important advice for a reason, and one area that should not be ignored when it comes to physical awareness is your feet. Stress fractures can occur in the bones of your feet and can lead to serious problems if not treated early on.
Stress fractures are tiny, hairline cracks that develop in bones, often as a result of repetitive activity such as overtraining and overuse. Improper training or equipment, such as shoes that don’t fit properly, training on hard surfaces or quick, abrupt increases in intensity can also contribute to the development of stress fractures. Even preexisting conditions, such as flat feet or osteoporosis, may increase the likelihood of stress fractures.
Left untreated, stress fractures can pose serious problems for your feet. The tiny, hairline fractures can lead to larger, more damaging complete breaks. Therefore, it is important to recognize the symptoms and seek out medical attention as soon as possible.
Common indicators of a stress fracture include pain, swelling, redness, and possibly bruising. It is important to consult with a foot and ankle surgeon for diagnosis and treatment options. If you continue physical activity with the fracture untreated, it can lengthen recovery time and may possibly worsen the injury.
A foot and ankle surgeon may use x-rays and other special diagnostic tools to locate the fracture and evaluate the extent of the injury prior to administering treatment. Treatment methods typically involve rest and immobilization of the foot. If the fracture is severe, surgery may be necessary to repair the damage and stabilize the foot. It is important to follow the surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully to speed up the recovery process.
To prevent stress fractures in the future, foot and ankle surgeons recommend proper footwear with strong arch support, shock-absorbing soles, and a comfortable fit. Gradual increases in activity and regular stretching can also help prevent the development of stress fractures.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is important to recognize them and seek medical attention to prevent further damage. At (insert practice name), Dr. Gilbert Huang DPM, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon, specializes in treating stress fractures and can help alleviate your pain and prevent more serious conditions down the line. Don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule an appointment today.