Stress Fractures
Stress fractures are tiny cracks in the bone caused by repetitive impact or overuse, often seen in runners, athletes, and active individuals. What begins as mild discomfort can quickly progress into a more serious injury if ignored. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent the fracture from worsening and to support proper healing. At Silver Spring Foot & Ankle, we provide specialized care to help you recover quickly and protect your long-term foot and ankle health.
What Are Stress Fractures?
Stress fractures occur when repetitive stress overwhelms the bone’s ability to repair itself. They commonly affect weight-bearing bones, especially in the:
- Foot & Ankle: Frequently seen in the metatarsals and heel bone due to running and prolonged standing.
- Shin (Tibia): Common in long-distance runners from repetitive impact.
- Other Areas: The hip, pelvis, and lower back may also develop stress fractures with overuse.
Causes & Risk Factors
Stress fractures develop when bones face more stress than they can handle. Contributing factors include:
- Repetitive activity: Running, jumping, and high-impact sports.
- Improper footwear: Shoes without support increase bone strain.
- Training errors: Rapid increases in intensity or frequency.
- Medical conditions: Low bone density, malnutrition, or structural foot issues.
Symptoms of Stress Fractures
Stress fracture symptoms often develop gradually:
- Pain that worsens with activity and eases with rest
- Swelling or tenderness directly over the injury
- Possible bruising
- Difficulty walking or moving comfortably
Diagnosing Stress Fractures
Proper diagnosis is essential to avoid worsening the injury. Your podiatrist will perform:
- Physical exam: Identifying pinpoint tenderness and swelling.
- Imaging: X-rays, MRI, or bone scans to confirm fractures—especially when early cracks aren’t visible on X-rays.
- Expert evaluation: Ensures correct diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan.
Treatment Options
Most stress fractures heal with conservative care:
- Rest & activity modification to reduce strain
- Ice & elevation to manage pain and swelling
- Supportive footwear or orthotics to offload pressure
- Pain relief with over-the-counter medications
- Physical therapy to restore strength and prevent recurrence
- Immobilization with a boot or cast as needed
For severe or non-healing fractures, surgery may be recommended to stabilize the bone.
Recovery & Rehabilitation
Recovery typically takes 6–8 weeks, depending on the fracture’s location and severity. A successful recovery includes:
- Gradual return to activity once pain resolves
- Proper footwear and training habits to prevent re-injury
- Rehabilitation exercises to improve strength, balance, and flexibility
When to See Our Experts
Seek an evaluation if you experience persistent pain, swelling, or difficulty bearing weight. Early treatment prevents the fracture from worsening and helps you return to activity sooner. Silver Spring Foot & Ankle offers expert diagnosis, advanced imaging, and personalized treatment plans to promote fast, safe, and complete healing.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
Stress fractures are common but highly treatable when addressed early. If you suspect a stress fracture or are experiencing ongoing foot or leg pain, schedule an appointment with us at Silver Spring Foot & Ankle for expert care and comprehensive recovery support.