Foot & Ankle Stress Fracture

Stress fractures are tiny breaks in your bones caused by repeated, continuous stress to the area. They often occur in the feet or ankles of athletes who run a lot in their sport. The bones in your mid-foot are especially vulnerable to stress fractures. Stress fractures are different from acute fractures, which are caused by a sudden, traumatic injury.

Diagnosing a Foot or Ankle Stress Fracture

We are skilled in identifying and treating stress fractures of the foot and ankle.

Signs & Symptoms

At first, a stress fracture may not have symptoms other than mild pain that goes away with rest. Over time, the pain will intensify, focused on the affected area of your ankle or foot.

Stress fracture symptoms include:

• Pain in the front of your ankle or foot, often after periods of activity
• Pain that goes away but returns when you continue to exercise
• Swollen area on your foot or ankle that is tender when touched

Diagnosis

We will examine your ankle and foot, check for tenderness and discuss your pain or discomfort. Diagnostic tests might include one or more of the following:

• Bone scan—to see areas of physical and chemical changes in your bones.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)—produces detailed pictures of the bones and soft tissue in your feet and ankles.
• X-rays—to evaluate the structures of your feet and ankles.

Foot & Ankle Stress Fracture Treatment

The first step in treating a stress fracture is often discontinuing the movement or activity that caused it.

Nonsurgical Treatments

We offer nonsurgical treatment options for stress fractures, including:

• Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)—to alleviate pain and swelling.
• Cast or brace—to hold the injured area in place and provide stability.
• Crutches—to support your body weight while the stress fracture heals.
• Physical therapy—to stretch and strengthen tendons and improve mobility.
• RICE Method—Rest the joint, Ice the affected area, Compress the area with an elastic bandage and Elevate the joint.
• Shock-absorbing shoes—to reduce impact during exercise.