What You Can Do To Stay Safe from Stress Fractures

You probably know that a fracture refers to a broken bone, but how much do you know about stress fractures‚ what causes them, who is at risk, and how to stay safe from injury? An acute bone fracture typically occurs as the result of a fall or an accident and causes sudden, intense pain. A stress fracture starts with a small hairline fissure in the bone; people with this injury usually experience intermittent discomfort that slowly progresses to unremitting pain over a period of time.

Stress fractures often occur in the feet and lower legs, which is why athletes and others who put repetitive stress on their legs and feet are most vulnerable. Runners, those who participate in court sports such as basketball and tennis, and dancers are all at particularly high risk. Podiatrists notice a spike in stress fractures when sports seasons begin or when training becomes more frequent and intensifies, such as during playoffs and championships.

You can reduce your risk of stress fracture. Be sure to take the following steps:

Increase training intensity or frequency gradually.

Make sure to wear appropriate footwear. Replace your shoes when they show signs of wear.

Eat a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to maintain bone health. Dairy foods and green leafy vegetables are good sources of these nutrients.

Talk to your podiatrist about custom orthotics to provide support, cushioning, and relief for fallen arches and other foot anomalies.

If you are familiar with the signs of stress fractures, you can keep yourself safe by seeing your foot doctor as soon as you notice them.

Stay alert for:

Aching pain deep within a limb or joint

Dull pain that occurs with activity and subsides when the activity concludes

Pain or discomfort that doesn't improve despite rest or icing.

Pain that seems worse in the evening or at night

Pain that starts shortly after an increase in training or intensity

Your podiatrist can help heal a stress fracture with a boot or cast to immobilize the affected area, prescription and over-the-counter medication for pain relief, and other non-surgical methods.

Here at The Texas Foot Specialists, Dr. Bruce Miller and Dr. Gregory Mangum provide expert and specialized care to address all of your foot and ankle needs. From conservative to advanced surgical treatments, you can always count on us for quality and compassionate care. Contact us online to make an appointment at one of our conveniently located offices in Sugar Land, Pasadena or Houston.