Foot & Ankle Fracture
Stress fractures frequently occur in the bones of the forefoot extending from your toes to the middle of your foot. Stress fractures are like tiny cracks in the bone surface. They can occur with sudden increases in training (such as running or walking for longer distances or times), improper training techniques or changes in training surfaces. Runners can experience a stress fracture when mileage is increased especially when training for a 5K or marathon.
Stress fractures are overuse injuries that occur when the muscles become fatigued and are unable to absorb shock. Increased repetitive stress forces on bone can cause “little cracks” in the bone that often result in a “stress fracture” (like when metal is bent repeatedly and finally snaps in half).
Causes:
Increasing mileage or frequency of running and/or training.
Workouts that involve jumping and/or stair climbing.
Increasing the amount of intensity of any activity too rapidly.
Impact of surface. Exercising on concrete, sidewalk, or any hard surface.
Improper equipment. Wearing the wrong shoe for your workout. Improper clips and pedal placement for cyclist….etc.
Osteoporosis (more common in women after 35 or 40 y/o)
Poor foot mechanics. Flat feet and high arched feet often “need help”
being efficient with repetitive activities. If not efficient, stress fractures can occur (like how a race car needs to have balanced tires in order to run at full performance).
Diagnosis requires an X-ray, examination of the foot and prompt treatment. Your risk for stress fractures is also based on several factors determined by Dr. Ripepi and your medical history.
Treatment usually involves refraining from activities, modifying activities, and eliminating the causes of the stress fracture from occurring in the first place. Early treatment often results in decreased time for stress fractures to heal. They can typically take 6-8 weeks to heal depending on when treatment starts. Speak to us today about treatment.
Pain of the foot or ankle that does not subside in 7-10 days should be examined so healing can begin. If any stress fracture, foot, or ankle injury occurs, call Ripepi Foot & Ankle Clinics right away at 440-843-3692. We will prioritize your care with a same-day or next-day appointment.