A stress fracture can be an unpleasant condition for anyone to suffer from. For runners, however, stress fractures can be particularly troublesome because the condition makes running considerably more difficult. Stress fractures in the feet can occur when a metatarsal bone develops a small break or bruise. Individuals with stress fractures can feel any number of symptoms. Most commonly, people with stress fractures might experience pain when at rest or when putting weight on the feet. Other patients might even experience swelling of some kind in the foot area and an altered running form. Runners ought to be especially mindful of stress fractures and how they develop because they sometimes occur due to overuse from running. For example, when an individual runs, they can put an extraordinary amount of force onto the bones in their feet. Over time, this force can become repetitive and eventually result in a stress fracture. If you are a runner and want to prevent the onset of stress fractures, make sure that you are wearing running shoes that fit properly. Seeing a chiropodist can also help you prevent or treat stress fractures.

A stress fracture often requires medical attention as it can progress and worsen over time. Please consult with Chiropodist Stephanie Poupore from North Bay Foot & Ankle. Our clinician will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

A stress fracture refers to a fine crack in a bone. This type of fracture is especially common in the feet, as they often endure repetitive pressure from daily activities such as walking or running. Stress fractures occur when the affected bone can not support the load being placed on it. Stress fractures in the foot can occur in any bone, but often affect the metatarsal bones which connect the toes to the rest of the foot, the heel bone, or the navicular bone on the top of the foot. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of a stress fracture may include: 

• Deep, dull pain

• Sharp, localized pain

• Intermittent pain

• Tenderness 

• Weakness

• Swelling

• Bruising 

• Changes in the biomechanics of the foot

Diagnosis

Stress fractures in the foot are diagnosed via medical history and a physical exam. You may also need to have diagnostic imaging tests like X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, bone scans, or an ultrasound performed to confirm the diagnosis and to rule out any other problems.  

Treatment

Nonsurgical treatment options include resting, icing, compressing and elevating the affected foot, taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory pain medications, modifying your footwear, wearing a cast, and using crutches. Certain types of foot fractures, such as navicular fractures, respond poorly to nonsurgical treatment and may need surgery to fully heal. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.