A stress fracture to a bone in the foot or ankle can be very difficult to locate and treat properly. The pain and discomfort may be intermittent and may only occur during certain specific movements, which your foot doctor can properly determine with a physical exam. X-ray and MRI tests will be used to confirm findings and to help design the appropriate therapy for optimal healing to occur.
Proper treatment of a stress fracture is essential for complete healing and to avoid reinjury:
- Immobilization of the entire foot with a rigid boot— A specially formed immobilizing walking boot may be prescribed by your foot doctor to isolate the injury and keep the foot from moving while the bones heal.
- Perform a proper routine of physical therapy exercises— Work with your foot doctor to incorporate a variety of low stress physical therapy exercises that will slowly increase strength without causing additional injury.
- Slowly add additional activities to avoid reinjury— Once the initial healing phase is complete, you should gradually reintroduce activities to help avoid another injury.
- Surgery may be required in severe cases— For severe fractures, surgery may be needed to hold the bones together. Recovery may be complicated, so be sure to see your foot doctor.
If you suspect that you are dealing with a stress fracture in your foot or ankle, see your podiatrist for the proper care. Dr. Scott Nelson of Foot and Ankle Medical Clinic in Garland, TX (county of Dallas), is a board-certified and highly experienced podiatrist who has helped people suffering from all types of foot and ankle injuries and deformities. From bunions to diabetic foot problems, sports injuries, and fungal nails, you can trust that Dr. Nelson and his staff are wholeheartedly devoted to your foot health. Please contact our office with any questions you may have or to schedule an appointment by calling 972-414-9800.