Three Tips to survive a Stress Fracture

Three Tips to survive a Stress Fracture

stress-fractures.jpgStress fractures are many runners’ greatest fear. Overcoming this injury may seem difficult, but many experts swear by the following three tips to survive a stress fracture: Get a diagnosis, don’t panic, and keep your eyes on the prize. A proper diagnosis is important if you suspect a possible stress fracture; a fact is better than a guess. If you’ve been diagnosed, ensure you give yourself plenty of rest, a gentle load of stress, and a gradual return to load-bearing activities. The mental difficulties of a stress fracture can be more troublesome than the physical. Take the injury one day at a time and take comfort in the fact that your foot will eventually heal.  

Stress fractures can become painful if left untreated for an extended period of time. If you would like assistance in treating a stress fracture, consult with Dr. Alan Discont, D.P.M. of Family Foot and Ankle Care. Dr. Discont can determine the severity of your condition and provide you with quality care.

Coping with Podiatric Stress Fractures

Stress Fractures occur on the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken as a result of overexertion or underuse.  As a result, the ankles and feet lose support when walking or running from the ground. Since these bones are not protected, they receive the full impact of each step. The stress on the feet causes the bones to form cracks.

What are Stress Fractures?

Stress Fractures are very common among those who are highly active and involved in sports or activities that make excessive use of their legs and feet. Stress fractures are especially common among:

-athletes (gymnasts, tennis players, basketball players)
-runners/joggers
-osteoporosis patients
-those who engage in high-intensity workouts

Stress Fracture Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures, and can be either constant or periodic. The pain is usually sharp or dull, accompanied by swelling and tenderness. Engagement in any kind of high impact activity will exacerbate the pain.

If you have any questions, please contact our office in Chandler, AZ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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