For athletes, the thrill of pushing limits can sometimes lead to unseen dangers, like stress fractures. These tiny cracks in the bone emerge from repetitive submaximal loading. This creates microfractures that, if left unaddressed, can spiral into full-blown fractures. The body reacts to stress on a spectrum, starting with a stress reaction and potentially ending in a fracture when repair mechanisms fall out of balance. This often results in nagging pain that intensifies during activity and subsides with rest, making it easy to ignore at first. To safeguard against these hidden injuries, athletes must tune in to their bodies and prioritize foot health. Smart training, wearing proper footwear, and adequate recovery are important. If you are feeling persistent foot pain after activity, it is suggested you book an appointment with a podiatrist to keep your feet in top condition, and to prevent further injury.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact John M. Fanelly, DPM from Northeast Philadelphia. 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 Philadelphia, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.