STRESS FRACTURES OF THE FOOT

Stress fractures are tiny cracks which develop in a metatarsal bone. Older adults are particularly vulnerable to them, which can result from many different factors. These bone injuries often occur over time because the thin, wafer-like spongy bone inside the outer shell of bone thins with age. The most common symptom is pain with activity that subsides with rest. Many people suffered stress fractures during the pandemic because people were barefoot more while working from home. Another factor, many gained weight, with the two being a bad combination for stress to the ball of the foot.

The symptoms of a stress fracture are more subtle than those of an actual broken bone. Generally, the sufferer doesn’t remember hurting themself. 

Many don’t realize they have one, since the pain is often vague and difficult to locate. There’s usually not much swelling or bruising and they usually can still walk, although with pain.

These fractures can be difficult to diagnose and so, too often go untreated. If your foot pain lasts more than a week and doesn’t seem to get better with ice and rest, see Dr. Conway McLean, your local podiatric physician. You'll get an accurate diagnosis and an effective treatment plan....and pain relief.