A stress fracture refers to one or more tiny cracks in a bone of the foot. Initially, a stress fracture causes mild symptoms, such as pain or weakness in the affected foot. You may experience more severe pain if you put pressure on the actual site of the fracture. It is also possible to have swelling and bruising on the affected foot. If left untreated, the pain of a stress fracture typically gets worse. For this reason, it is important to see a podiatrist. The doctor will examine your foot, and may use an X-ray or MRI to confirm the diagnosis. After that, treatment can begin. It can take several weeks for this injury to heal. If you think that you might have a stress fracture, it is suggested that you seek the care of a podiatrist.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors 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 North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.