Have you recently gone on vacation, and walked more than you usually do at home on a day to day basis? Do you now have pain in your ankle or foot? Stress fractures don’t only occur in people who run and exercise daily, because anyone is at risk. Typically, this type of injury can be caused by a sudden increase in physical activity. Examples are an increase in exercise frequency, running on a different surface, and even changing your shoes can all be causes of a stress fracture. A stress fracture is a small crack in a bone, or severe bruising within a bone. To prevent stress fractures, it is suggested that you implement a proper nutrition regiment, wear shoes that fit correctly, and start slowly when beginning any new exercise routine. If you believe you have a stress fracture, it is strongly advised to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. Prior to your appointment, it is suggested that you  elevate your foot which may help to relieve swelling.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Chukwuma Ukata, DPM from Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                  
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Garner, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.