Stress fractures in the foot are usually the result of overuse or repetitive activities. They are common among runners, basketball and soccer players, and dancers. Women who are experiencing osteoporosis are also at risk. Foot stress fractures affect three main areas: the 2nd and 3rd metatarsals, the navicular bone at the top of the foot, and the calcaneus bone in the heel. Stress fractures may be difficult to detect because they are tiny hairline cracks in the bones and may easily be missed in an X-ray. Because they usually develop over time and are not immediately painful, stress fractures often go undetected or are mistaken for plain old sore feet. These fractures are caused by any activity that puts too much stress on the bones. Among the causes are increasing the frequency or length of an activity too quickly, changing from a soft to hard surface, using a faulty technique that may be the result of other conditions, and utilizing improper footwear. Even non-athletes experience stress fractures when walking too far or for too long while on vacation. If constant foot pain causes you to believe you may have developed stress fractures of the foot, please visit a podiatrist for a complete exam and diagnosis. 

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Hugar Foot & Ankle Specialists. 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 Elmwood Park, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.