If it is difficult to walk due to pain and discomfort in your foot, a fracture may be to blame. Scott Nelson, DPM, and his team of practitioners at Foot & Ankle Medical Clinic in Garland, Texas, use the latest technology to diagnose and treat different types of foot fractures. To ensure proper healing, a foot fracture requires prompt care from a foot and ankle specialist. To schedule an appointment with the experts at Foot & Ankle Medical Clinic, call the office or book online now.
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.
Foot fracture symptoms aren’t always obvious, particularly if you have a small fracture. However, more apparent signs of a foot fracture include:
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.
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:
Previous stress fractures, especially those left untreated, also increase your risk of future bone breaks.
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.
Depending on the severity of your foot fracture, the team at Foot & Ankle Medical Clinic may recommend one or more of the following treatments:
To learn more about foot fractures, call Foot & Ankle Medical Clinic or schedule an appointment online now.
