Central Oregon is a fairly active community, so stress fractures in the foot are something I see from time to time. Stress fractures are treatable, and more importantly, they can be prevented!

A stress fracture is a small crack in a bone that typically develops from overuse—specifically from repetitive impacts sustained over time. The most common place for stress fractures are the second and third metatarsals of the foot. Stress fractures are commonly seen in runners, but people of all walks of life get stress fractures.

Our feet are under continuous stress every day, and the muscles of the feet act as shock absorbers. Foot mechanics, the way our feet are structured and how they move, are something we are born with and many people have irregular foot mechanics. These slight irregularities can result in stress fractures in the foot. Women who have bone insufficiencies, such as osteoporosis, can get stress fractures from normal every day activities.

In the case of stress fractures, prevention really is the best medicine, particularly when it comes to activity and exercise. Orthotics can also help prevent stress fractures by balancing your foot mechanics.

• Frequency – how often you exercise. “Too much, too fast”. This is common in people who are just starting an exercise program from a previously sedentary life.
• Duration – how long you exercise. This is a common cause in runners who try to increase their mileage too quickly, like in the spring after a winter rest period.
• Intensity – the level of exertion. Also common in runners who try to increase their speed intensity over a short period of time.

Symptoms of a stress fracture include:

• Pain that develops gradually and increases with more weight bearing activity
• Pain when applying weight on the foot
• Swelling in the mid-foot and even the associated toe
• Pain is often worse when walking uphill or up stairs
• Pain that is worse when barefooted vs. being in a rigid shoe

If you suspect you have a stress fracture, stop all activity and make an appointment to see a podiatrist. Ignoring the pain and continuing activity could result in the bone breaking even more, leading more serious complications.

Treatment of stress fractures includes everything from ample rest to protective footwear to help immobilize your foot. With proper rest and treatment, stress fractures can heal properly so you can get back to your activities.

Feel free to contact me to make an appointment.

–Dr. Frank, 541-385-7129