Stress fractures in the foot are usually the result of overuse or repetitive activities. They are common among runners, basketball and soccer players, and dancers. Women who are experiencing osteoporosis are also at risk. Foot stress fractures affect three main areas: the 2nd and 3rd metatarsals, the navicular bone at the top of the foot, and the calcaneus bone in the heel. Stress fractures may be difficult to detect because they are tiny hairline cracks in the bones and may easily be missed in an X-ray. Because they usually develop over time and are not immediately painful, stress fractures often go undetected or are mistaken for plain old sore feet. These fractures are caused by any activity that puts too much stress on the bones. Among the causes are increasing the frequency or length of an activity too quickly, changing from a soft to hard surface, using a faulty technique that may be the result of other conditions, and utilizing improper footwear. Even non-athletes experience stress fractures when walking too far or for too long while on vacation. If constant foot pain causes you to believe you may have developed stress fractures of the foot, please visit a podiatrist for a complete exam and diagnosis. 

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Dr. Mark Spier from Maryland. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Columbia and Reisterstown, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.