Foot Fracture Specialist

What is a foot fracture?

A foot fracture is a break in one or more of the 26 bones in the foot. The severity of your fracture depends on its location and cause. 

Fractures can range from small cracks in the bone to complete breaks. While minor fractures often heal on their own, more severe cases may require surgery.

What are the symptoms of a foot fracture?

Foot fracture symptoms aren’t always obvious, particularly if you have a small fracture. However, more apparent signs of a foot fracture include:

• Swelling
• Bruising
• Sharp, dull, or throbbing pain
• Pain that worsens with movement
• Difficulty walking
• Clear bump, lump, or deformity

Foot fractures respond well to rest and elevation, so it’s important not to bear weight on your affected foot if you suspect you have a break.

What causes a foot fracture?

The most common causes of foot fractures are direct impacts from an accident, fall, or injury. Something as simple as stubbing your toe can fracture your foot. Dropping a heavy weight on your foot or fracturing it in a car accident may be severe enough to require surgery.

Meanwhile, stress fractures commonly develop from overuse. Long-distance runners are particularly vulnerable to stress fractures, as running puts pressure on the feet.

While foot fractures can affect anybody, you’re more likely to have one if you:

• Have osteoporosis
• Are female
• Have weight struggles
• Have flat feet or high arches
• Increase physical activity too quickly
• Play tennis, basketball, track, or dance
• Lack vitamin D or calcium in your diet

Previous stress fractures, especially those left untreated, also increase your risk of future bone breaks.

How is a foot fracture diagnosed?

Diagnosing a foot fracture typically involves a complete review of your medical history and physical exam. In most cases, it also requires imaging tests, such as X-rays, to determine the location and severity of your fracture.

You may also need a bone scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) if Dr. Nelson needs additional information.

What are the treatments for a foot fracture?

Depending on the severity of your foot fracture, the team at Foot & Ankle Medical Clinic may recommend one or more of the following treatments:

• Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (R.I.C.E.)
• Bandaging, bracing, or casting
• Custom-made orthotic shoe inserts
• Surgery

To learn more about foot fractures, call Foot & Ankle Medical Clinic or schedule an appointment online now.