5/28/2023 0 Comments Stress fracture in foot![]() Other complications include the bone healing in an abnormal position (malunion), and recurrent stress fractures. The most common complication is that the stress fracture does not heal (non-union). Surgery involves placing bone graft in the non-union site, and then placing screws or plates to compress the fracture and hold it together. Surgery may be required if the fracture is not healed completely by non-surgical treatment. Calcium and Vitamin D supplements are also often prescribed. Crutches may be used to prevent weight going through the foot until the stress fracture is healed completely. In certain cases, a cast may be recommended to immobilise the leg and foot. A stiff soled surgical shoe or a walking boot may form part of the treatment. Protective footwear may be recommended which helps to reduce stress on the foot. Re-injury can also occur without allowing the stress fracture to completely heal. If children return too quickly to the activity that has caused stress fracture, it may lead to chronic problems such as harder-to-heal stress fractures. Non-impact activities like swimming and exercise bike can sometimes continue. Stress fractures are initially treated by stopping the aggravating exercise, which usually means rest and time away from sport for 6-8 weeks. Additional tests like MRI, CT or bone scan can then be required in this case. X-rays are required, but these can be normal if you’ve only had the symptoms for a short time. The diagnosis is usually made based on history and physical examination. Swelling, bruising, and tenderness may also occur at a specific point. The most common symptom is pain in the foot, which usually gets worse during exercise and decreases with rest. What symptoms does a stress fracture cause? The risk of developing a stress fracture increases in females if the bone density decreases. It is a combination of eating disorders, amenorrhea (irregular menstrual cycle), and osteoporosis (thinning of the bones). An athlete with inadequate rest between workouts can also develop stress fractures.įemales are at a greater risk of developing stress fractures than males, and this may be related to a condition referred to as the "female athletic triad". During these sports the repetitive stress of the foot strike on a hard surface causes trauma and muscle fatigue. Athletes participating in certain sports such as basketball, tennis, gymnastics and running are at a greater risk of developing stress fractures. They can also be caused by impact on a hard surface, improper footwear, and increased physical activity. Stress fractures are usually caused by a rapid increase in the intensity of exercise. ![]() When the bones are subjected to abnormal stress, such as an increase in activity or a new exercise regime, they may not be well adapted to the new forces, and they can crack under the new stresses. They most commonly occur in the weight bearing bones of the lower leg and foot. Stress Fractures of the Foot & Ankle What is a stress fracture?Ī stress fracture is a small crack in the bone which occurs due to overuse.
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