What causes stress fractures in the foot?

Stress fractures are typically caused by repetitive activities that place excessive stress on the bones, such as running, jumping, or walking long distances. Factors like sudden increases in activity, improper footwear, and foot deformities can also contribute.

What are the symptoms of a foot stress fracture?

Common symptoms include pain that increases with activity and decreases with rest, swelling, tenderness, and bruising. The pain is often localized to a specific spot on the foot and may worsen over time if not addressed.

How is a foot stress fracture diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and a review of your activity history. Imaging tests like X-rays, MRI, or bone scans may be used to confirm the presence and extent of the fracture.

What treatments are available for foot stress fractures?

Treatment usually involves rest and avoiding activities that put stress on the foot. Protective footwear, such as a walking boot, may be recommended. In some cases, physical therapy or surgery might be necessary, especially if the fracture doesn't heal properly.

How long does it take to recover from a foot stress fracture?

Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the fracture and adherence to treatment. Generally, it takes about 6 to 8 weeks for a stress fracture to heal. Returning to activity too soon can delay healing or cause further injury.

How can I prevent stress fractures in the future?

To prevent stress fractures, gradually increase activity levels, wear appropriate footwear, cross-train to avoid repetitive stress, and ensure adequate nutrition, including sufficient calcium and vitamin D intake.

Stress Fractures

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures are small cracks or severe bruising within a bone, often caused by repetitive force or overuse. They frequently occur in the foot or lower leg, especially among runners, athletes, and people with sudden increases in activity. At JS Podiatry in East Perth, our expert team specialises in diagnosing and managing stress fractures to help you recover safely and return to your active lifestyle.

Symptoms

Common signs of a stress fracture include:

Localised pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest

Swelling and tenderness at the injury site

Possible bruising or redness

Pain that develops gradually and may become severe if untreated

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent a complete fracture and ensure effective healing.

Causes and Risk Factors

Stress fractures are often caused by:

Sudden increase in physical activity or training intensity

High-impact sports (e.g., running, basketball, dance)

Poor footwear or inadequate foot support

Bone weakness from conditions like osteoporosis

Biomechanical issues such as flat feet or high arches

Diagnosis

At JS Podiatry, we conduct a thorough assessment, including your medical history, physical examination, and gait analysis. Diagnostic imaging (such as X-rays or MRI) may be recommended to confirm the presence and severity of a stress fracture.

Treatment Options

Our tailored treatment plans for stress fractures may include:

Rest and Activity Modification: Reducing or temporarily stopping the activity causing the injury.

Protective Footwear or Bracing: To offload and protect the affected bone while it heals.

Custom Orthotics: To address underlying biomechanical issues and prevent future injury.

Pain Management: Guidance on safe pain relief and anti-inflammatory strategies.

Gradual Return to Activity: Structured rehabilitation to restore strength and prevent recurrence.

Referral to Specialists: For complex cases, we coordinate care with trusted medical professionals.

Why Choose JS Podiatry?

Our experienced team is dedicated to helping you recover from stress fractures with evidence-based care and personalised support. We focus on long-term bone health, injury prevention, and getting you back to the activities you love.

Book an Appointment

If you suspect a stress fracture, don’t delay your recovery. Contact JS Podiatry today for expert assessment and a customised treatment plan.

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FAQs:

A stress fracture is a small crack or severe bruising within a bone, often caused by repetitive force or overuse. They frequently occur in the foot or lower leg, especially among runners, athletes, and people with sudden increases in activity.
Stress fractures are typically caused by repetitive activities that place excessive stress on the bones, such as running, jumping, or walking long distances. Factors like sudden increases in activity, improper footwear, and foot deformities can also contribute.
Common symptoms include pain that increases with activity and decreases with rest, swelling, tenderness, and bruising. The pain is often localized to a specific spot on the foot and may worsen over time if not addressed.
Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and a review of your activity history. Imaging tests like X-rays, MRI, or bone scans may be used to confirm the presence and extent of the fracture.
Treatment usually involves rest and avoiding activities that put stress on the foot. Protective footwear, such as a walking boot, may be recommended. In some cases, physiotherapy or surgery might be necessary, especially if the fracture doesn't heal properly.
Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the fracture and adherence to treatment. Generally, it takes about 6 to 8 weeks for a stress fracture to heal. Returning to activity too soon can delay healing or cause further injury.
To prevent stress fractures, gradually increase activity levels, wear appropriate footwear, cross-train to avoid repetitive stress, and ensure adequate nutrition, including sufficient calcium and vitamin D intake.