Stress Fractures Specialist in Chicago, IL
Board-Certified Orthopedic Treatment for Foot and Ankle Stress Fractures
Stress fractures are small cracks in a bone that develop due to repetitive force and overuse. Unlike acute fractures caused by a sudden impact, stress fractures occur gradually when muscles become fatigued and lose their ability to absorb shock, transferring the stress to the bones. These injuries are common among athletes, runners, and individuals who engage in high-impact activities.
Foot and ankle stress fractures frequently occur in weight-bearing bones such as the metatarsals and tibia, often due to sudden increases in activity, improper footwear, or biomechanical imbalances. Early symptoms include localized pain that worsens with activity, swelling, and tenderness. Proper diagnosis and treatment, including rest, supportive footwear, and gradual return to activity, are essential to prevent further complications.
At Suburban Orthopaedics, our expert orthopedic and sports medicine team specializes in diagnosing, treating, and preventing stress fractures to help patients recover safely and avoid long-term complications.
What Can Cause Foot and Ankle Pain Without Injury?
Stress fractures are most commonly found in weight-bearing bones such as the tibia (shinbone), metatarsals in the foot, and femur. They often develop when physical activity increases too quickly, preventing bones from adapting. Improper footwear, hard training surfaces, and biomechanical abnormalities can contribute to these injuries. Individuals with lower bone density, poor nutrition, or those participating in repetitive activities like running or basketball are particularly susceptible. Most patients with a stress fracture experience mild discomfort during activity that gradually worsens to persistent pain, even while resting.
What Causes a Stress Fracture?
Stress fractures result from repetitive impact on bones without enough recovery time. They are often caused by excessive running or jumping, sudden increases in training intensity, poor footwear, and weakened bones from conditions like osteoporosis or inadequate nutrition. Athletes in high-impact sports, such as runners, basketball players, soccer players, dancers, and gymnasts, are particularly vulnerable.
Symptoms include localized pain that worsens with activity, swelling, tenderness, and a dull ache at the fracture site. If untreated, stress fractures can lead to complete fractures and longer recovery times.
Foot and ankle stress fractures mostly affect the metatarsal bones, heel (calcaneus), and navicular bone. They typically develop when repetitive stress exceeds the bone’s ability to repair itself. Early intervention with rest, appropriate footwear, and activity modification is essential for preventing further injury and ensuring full recovery.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Our specialists diagnose stress fractures through physical exams and medical history reviews. Since early-stage fractures may not appear on X-rays, advanced imaging like MRIs or bone scans may be necessary. Treatment focuses on relieving pain, promoting healing, and preventing further injury. Rest is essential, as continued stress on the bone can worsen the fracture. Protective footwear, braces, or crutches may help reduce weight-bearing stress. Ice therapy is used for swelling and pain relief. Physical therapy may be recommended to improve biomechanics and muscle strength, reducing reinjury risk. In more severe cases, immobilization with a walking boot or cast may be required. Surgery is rare but may be considered if healing is delayed or the fracture is in a high-risk location.
Can I Prevent Stress Fractures?
Rehabilitation ensures full recovery and reduces the risk of future stress fractures. The caring staff at Suburban Orthopaedics design personalized rehabilitation plans focused on gradually reintroducing weight-bearing activities, strengthening supporting muscles, and improving movement patterns. Talk to your provider about proper nutrition, which is vital in bone health and recovery. Gradually increasing training intensity allows bones to adapt without excessive stress. Wearing appropriate footwear with adequate support and shock absorption is essential, as is minimizing repeated bone stress by switching to low-impact activities like cycling or swimming.
Board-Certified Stress Fracture Care at Suburban Orthopaedics
Whether you are an athlete, a recreational runner, or someone experiencing persistent bone pain, our specialized orthopedic team is here to create a tailored treatment plan. If you are experiencing symptoms of a stress fracture, contact Suburban Orthopaedics today to schedule an evaluation and start your recovery journey.
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