Stress Fractures Can be Difficult to Detect

Have you been experiencing an annoying but not completely debilitating pain in your forefoot or heel? At Pasco-Hernando Foot & Ankle, one condition we sometimes see in patients who complain of pain is a stress fracture. Although less dramatic than an acute fracture, a stress fracture can be just as serious. Below is some important information about this type of injury.

What is a Stress Fracture?

A stress fracture is a tiny hairline crack in the bone. Unlike an acute break which usually occurs as the result of an accident or trauma (such as dropping a very heavy object on your foot), a stress fracture can develop gradually over time. Signs of a stress fracture include:

• Pain—which may be constant or intermittent

• Swelling

• Redness

• Bruising

Causes and Treatment

A stress fracture can occur for a variety of varied reasons. Some of these are:

• Overuse

• Improper training habits or too much of one kind of exercise

• Biomechanical foot problems such as flatfeet or a toe or foot deformity

• Wearing improper footwear that exerts pressure or strain on a particular area of the foot

• Osteoporosis—often a stress fracture is the first sign of this disease

It’s always best if you have any foot or ankle pain—even if it is not extreme—to discuss it with our podiatrist, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales. The foot doctor will examine your foot or ankle, ask questions about your activities, and look at your medical history. He may order x-rays (which can be done right in our Hudson office) or other imaging studies to confirm a diagnosis.

Stress fractures are best treated in their early stages to help heal before they become more serious. If a stress fracture is found, the podiatrist will determine the best course of action, which may include rest and possible immobilization of the affected area of the foot. If you have unexplained foot pain, contact our Hudson office by calling 727-868-2128 or 352-683-5799 for an appointment today.