Stress Fractures in Feet

Stress fractures in the feet are a common injury among athletes, especially those who participate in high-impact activities such as running. While they may seem minor, they can cause significant pain and disrupt your daily life. It is important to understand the causes, risk factors, prevention, and treatment of stress fractures in the feet to protect yourself from injury and heal properly and quickly.

At Hecker Sports Medicine in Fort Collins, our highly skilled sports medicine specialists can help you understand your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan for your individual needs.

Causes

Stress fractures in the feet are usually caused by overuse. Activities such as running and jumping can put a lot of strain on the feet, which can cause the bones to become weak and eventually crack.

Risk Factors

Risk factors for stress fractures in the feet include having a high BMI, engaging in high-impact activities, having flat feet, and having a previous stress fracture. Women are more likely to be affected than men, and athletes are more likely to experience this condition than non-athletes.

Prevention

The best way to prevent a stress fracture is to wear the proper footwear. Shoes that are too tight or too loose can increase the risk of developing a stress fracture. It is also important to avoid activities that involve running or jumping if you are at risk of developing a stress fracture. If you are an athlete, allow enough time for rest and recovery.

Treatment

The treatment for a stress fracture depends on the location and severity of the fracture. Generally, treatment involves rest, icing, and pain medications. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the fracture. Hecker Sports focuses on non-surgical treatment options — contact us today to see if our treatment plan is right for you.