Persistent Foot Pain: Could It Be a Stress Fracture?
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Foot pain can significantly impact our daily lives, making even the simplest activities a real challenge.
But when foot discomfort persists, it's important to consider potential underlying causes. One of which, could be a stress fracture, and understanding them, their symptoms, causes, and treatment options can help you address the issue a lot quicker and a lot more effectively.
What is a Stress Fracture?
A stress fracture is a small crack or severe bruising within a bone. They commonly occur in weight-bearing bones, such as those in the foot and lower leg, due to repetitive force or overuse. Unlike acute fractures caused by a sudden impact, stress fractures develop gradually over time and are often as a result of repetitive activities or overtraining.
Symptoms of a Stress Fracture
Identifying a stress fracture can be challenging because the symptoms often develop slowly. Common signs to watch for include:
Persistent Pain
Pain that worsens during weight-bearing activities and diminishes with rest.
Swelling
Swelling on the top of the foot or the outside of the ankle.
Tenderness
Tenderness at a specific spot on the foot, which feels sore to touch.
Bruising
In some cases, there may also be bruising around the affected area.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Causes and Risk Factors
Aside from repetitive activities or overtraining, there are several other factors can contribute to the development of stress fractures:
Improper Footwear
Wearing shoes that lack proper support can increase the risk of stress fractures.
Bone Health
Conditions like osteoporosis can weaken bones, making them more susceptible to fractures.
Foot Structure
Certain foot types, such as flat feet or high arches, can also predispose individuals to stress fractures.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing a stress fracture typically involves a physical examination and imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans. Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent the injury from worsening.
Treatment Options
Rest and Activity Modification
The cornerstone of treatment for stress fractures is to rest the affected foot and avoid activities that exacerbate the pain. This allows the bone to heal naturally.
Support
Wearing a brace can help alleviate stress on the foot – but patients can also be put into a boot for a minimum of 6 weeks.
Ice and Elevation
Applying ice and elevating the foot can reduce swelling and pain.
Medications
Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort during the early stages.
Physical Therapy
Once the pain subsides, physical therapy may be recommended to strengthen the foot and prevent future injuries.
At the New Milton Foot Clinic, we would recommend suitable types of trainers and we may treat with low level laser which has analgesic and anti-inflammatory settings - as some oral medications may not be suitable. In severe cases, or if the stress fracture does not heal with conservative treatment, surgical intervention may be necessary.
Preventing Stress Fractures
While not all stress fractures can be prevented, certain measures can reduce your risk:
Gradual Progression
Increase your activity level gradually, allowing your body to adapt to new stresses.
Proper Footwear
Invest in high-quality, supportive shoes suitable for your specific activities to reduce strain and tension.
Cross-Training
Incorporate low-impact activities such as swimming or cycling to give your feet a break from repetitive stress.
Strength Training
Strengthening exercises for your feet and legs can improve bone density and resilience.
Nutrition
Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to support bone health.
When to See a Podiatrist for Foot Pain
If you have persistent foot pain that doesn’t improve with rest, it’s time to see one of our podiatrists. At the New Milton Foot Clinic, we offer comprehensive evaluations and personalised foot care treatment plans tailored to your lifestyle, to help you recover and return to your usual activities.
To give your feet the care they require, book an appointment at our New Milton podiatry clinic. Click here or call 01425 638474 to schedule your visit.