A stress fracture in the foot is a small crack or break in a bone. This type of fracture is also known as a hairline fracture. Stress fractures most often happen in weight-bearing bones among people who participate in repetitive activities that put a lot of stress on the feet. They are also due to a sudden change in activities or surfaces, or an abnormal foot structure. Those most at risk for stress fractures are women, those with low levels of vitamin D and calcium, those with osteoporosis, those taking certain medications, and those who have previously sustained foot stress fractures. Stress fractures can occur in any bone of the foot but most often happen to the second and third metatarsal bones – the long bones that connect the toes to the ankle. These are the bones that bear the most stress when pushing off the foot. A stress fracture must heal properly to prevent worse injuries from occurring. Stress fractures of the foot cause pain, which gets worse when walking or bearing weight. The pain may ease when resting and return when activity commences. Stress fractures can be prevented by warming up before participating in activities that put stress on the feet, cross-training rather than focusing on a single sport, wearing properly fitted shoes for the activity, eating a healthy diet (with enough vitamin D and calcium), and checking in with doctors about possible side effects of medicines they are taking. If you feel you have a foot stress fracture, you might see a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Jeffrey L. Bober, DPM from Maryland. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Glen Burnie, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.