How can you tell if you have a stress fracture in your foot?
Symptoms of a Foot Stress Fracture
- Tenderness. The injured bone may feel painful or sore when touched; this is called “pinpoint pain”.
- Deep, dull pain. The pain may be felt deep within the foot or toes.
- Weakness.
- Intermittent pain.
- Swelling.
- Changes in biomechanics.
- Sharp, localized pain.
- Bruising.
Can you walk with a stress fracture in the foot?
Doctors do not recommend walking when you have a stress fracture because it may reopen the partially healed fracture, and you may have to begin the recovery process again. Although you can walk, doctors would recommend staying away from hard surfaces and not walking long distances.
Is walking bad for a stress fracture?
The worst choices for resumed activity while you recover from a foot or ankle stress fracture are running or even walking on hard surfaces. You can easily reopen your fracture and have to begin the recovery process again. During recovery, wear comfortable, supportive shoes without a raised heel.
What happens if a foot stress fracture goes untreated?
If left untreated, stress fractures tend to increase in severity until the pain becomes disabling. Over time, an untreated stress fracture can put you at risk of suffering a fracture in the affected bone.
Should I wrap my foot if I have a stress fracture?
If swelling is present, utilize a simple ACE wrap around the foot and ankle to help with the swelling and pain. Start at the toes, and work up the leg. Take care to not apply the ACE wrap too tightly as over squeezing the foot can be irritating.
How long can you walk on a stress fracture?
Modified activities. It typically takes from 6 to 8 weeks for a stress fracture to heal. During that time, switch to activities that place less stress on your foot and leg. Swimming and cycling are good alternative activities.
What are the signs and symptoms of a stress fracture?
Signs and Symptoms. Symptoms of a stress fracture may include: Pain in the area of the fracture, which often gets worse over time and with increased activity, and may be relieved by rest. Swelling and tenderness of the affected area.
What is the recovery time for a foot stress fracture?
If you’ve fractured your foot, depending on the severity of your fracture, you may be in for a long recovery time. The average foot fracture takes about eight to 12 weeks to heal.
What is the prognosis for a stress fracture?
The prognosis for people with stress fractures depends upon age, severity, number and location of stress fractures and other factors. In most cases, stress fractures do not require surgery and will heal with proper rest.
What can cause a stress fracture?
A stress fracture is generally the result of overuse or repeated trauma to a bone. Also known as “fatigue fractures,” a stress fracture occurs when muscles become fatigued or overloaded and can no longer absorb the stress and shock of repeated impact.