A stress fracture is a tiny, hairline crack in a bone, usually caused by overuse or repetitive actions. This injury is common among runners, dancers, gymnasts, and athletes involved in football, basketball and tennis. Stress fractures frequently develop when a sudden increase in intensity, frequency, and duration of activity occurs. Sometimes the muscles in the foot lack the strength to cope with the higher levels of training or activity. They may not be able to support the bones properly, increasing vulnerability and causing these tiny fractures. Factors that have been found to contribute to foot stress fractures include, gender, age, biomechanics, improper footwear, and bone density. More women than men incur foot stress fractures as the result of hormonal changes and osteoporosis. Flattening arches can cause the bones to absorb more of the force in activity. Stress fractures can be easy to ignore and difficult to detect because when the activity is ceased, the pain and possible swelling often recedes. A podiatrist, after taking a history of the patient’s activity levels, will often order an MRI to be taken, as these injuries can be difficult to see with an X-ray. For more information on stress fractures in the foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist. 

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact David K. Morris, DPM from Florida. Our doctor 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 our office located in Plantation, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.