Stress fractures are bone breaks that happen more subtly than one would usually think of when imagining broken bones. They are caused by repetitive movement on or by a bone over time. These fractures can either be hairline fractures or total breaks. Common areas of the body for stress fractures to occur include the shin, thigh, pelvis, and feet. Anyone can be affected by stress fractures but they are most commonly seen in athletes, healthcare workers, and military personnel. Generally, this type of fracture is caused by overuse. While the body is constantly repairing itself, certain actions prevent the body from normal healing. Feet need ample time to rest and repair or one can be prone to fractures. Other possible causes of bone breaks include osteoporosis, wearing improper footwear (too tight, too high, or not supportive), misaligned bones or muscles, obesity, and using oral steroids. If you experience foot pain that is not going away in a reasonable time frame, visit a podiatrist to see if you have developed a stress fracture.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Houston Foot and Ankle Care. 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 offices located in Inner Loop, Southwest, Greater Heights, and Pearland, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.