How do I know if I have a stress fracture in my foot?

What is a Stress Fracture of the Foot?

Stress fractures are a common foot injury that can be painful and quite a nuisance to heal. Stress fractures occur when bone is subjected to long-term, low-grade stress and strain that slowly causes internal damage to its interior.

What Causes Stress Fractures in the Foot?

These stressors can be commonplace activities like stepping off of platforms at work or long-term use of pedals. Even positioning the foot on a cross bar under a desk can put strain on the metatarsal. Poorly supportive shoes can magnify the risk of bone injury, and some people are even at greater risk for a stress fracture because of issues with the quality of their bones.

What Are the Symptoms of a Foot Stress Fracture?

Stress fractures can have multiple symptoms, ranging from a dull ache in the middle of the foot to a sharp pain while standing and walking. Stress fractures can occur in many places along the metatarsal length, and can sometimes occur in several bones at once.

Treatment for Stress Fractures in the Foot

The treatment of metatarsal stress fractures is a little trickier than treating a regular fracture. In most instances, surgery is neither necessary nor helpful. Immobilization in either a walking boot, or less commonly a cast, is needed to reduce stress to the bone and allow it time to heal. A stiff soled shoe can be used for support in a small number of mild cases for relief. Most metatarsal stress fractures take anywhere from one to three months to heal, and sometimes take longer. The bone simply needs time to mend, although in some cases an electronic bone stimulator can be used in cases that refuse to heal.

How Long Does It Take a Foot Stress Fracture to Heal?

The amount of time one must wait can be frustrating for people trying to get active again. It can be even more frustrating for athletes trying to get back to their sports. Fortunately, these stress fractures do eventually heal, and stay healed for the most part.

If you have chronic pain in your foot and suspect a stress fracture, contact a local Upperline Foot and Ankle clinic today. We have top podiatric professionals ready to treat your stress fracture so that you can get back on your feet as quickly as possible.