Fatigue and hairline fractures are also known as stress fractures. They are small cracks that happens to one or more bones in the foot from overuse. They can be common among athletes or children who frequently participate in sporting activities.  It can happen from increasing speed and mileage too quickly, in addition to having an abnormal foot structure. Research has shown that patients who have high arches or flat feet may be prone to developing stress fractures, possibly as a result of a lack of shock absorption that comes from the surrounding muscles. Additionally, wearing shoes that do not fit correctly may lead to getting a stress fracture, or it may happen from running on hard surfaces. Relief may be found when the activity that caused the fracture is temporarily ceased, and the affected foot is elevated. If you have endured a stress fracture of the foot, please consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective treatment methods.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Kimberly Woodard, DPM from Pinnacle Foot and Ankle Centers, LLC . 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 Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.