Stress Fracture

A stress fracture is small cracks in a bone usually due to repetitive stress. This is a common condition in runners who increase their mileage too rapidly. Repetitive stress can overload the ability of a bone to repair itself resulting in small breaks. If the stress continues a true fracture will occur. Stress fractures are also common in individuals with osteoporosis.

Symptoms

Pain and swelling over the injured bone is common. Initial x-rays may fail to show the break. A CT scan, MRI or bone scan often yields more definitive diagnosis. Boney changes typically can be seen on X-rays after two weeks of initial symptoms.

Treatment

Treatment of a stress fracture revolves around decreasing stress on the affected bone. This can be achieved with crutches, surgical shoes, or a Cam Walker. In certain cases surgery may be required to stabilize the bone.

*If you have been diagnosed with a stress fracture and require an immobilization device we recommend footsupplystore.com

*If you think you think you may have a stress fracture and require an evaluation, please call our office (numbers below) or fill out the contact form and we will contact you.