Stress fractures are small cracks in the bones of the foot and/or ankle most commonly caused by unusual or repeated stress rather than by a single hard impact. Bones are living, changing structures, absorbing and rebuilding cells constantly. When too much stress occurs for the bones to rebuild themselves sufficiently, a weakened stress point can occur.
Fatigue often is part of the cause – muscles that are over-tired are less able to absorb the shock of impact when the foot hits the ground and the stress is transferred to the bones. This can occur in athletes who train too hard or try to do too much or even in non-athletes who do more than usual or often do too little and have bones that have become weak.
Symptoms of stress fractures may include:
- pain that comes on gradually and worsens with walking or running but improves with rest
- tenderness or swelling on the top or outside of the foot or ankle with no previous trauma
An interview and examination with your podiatrist is warranted for diagnosis - X-rays may not always show stress fractures until more healing takes place.
In the weight bearing bones of the foot and ankle, healing may be delayed by continuing to put weight on that limb. Rest and a cast or walking boot are often used for 4 to 8 weeks followed by rehabilitation to strengthen the muscles of the leg and ankle.
Strengthening muscles and bones by gradually increasing activity levels, avoiding sudden bursts of exercise, wearing proper supportive footwear, and eating a good diet are all ways to help prevent stress fractures.
By,
John Craigo, PT
For more information or to make an appointment please contact Affiliated Podiatrists, Inc. at 440-946-5858 or visit our website:
And remeber..."When your feet hurt, you hurt all over!"
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