Foot Fractures

What causes foot fractures?

Many of the bones of the foot are quite tiny and vulnerable to fracture. You usually experience a break when you crush, bend, stretch, or twist a bone out of its typical movement pattern. Kicking a hard object, landing from a fall, or twisting or spraining an ankle can all lead to a foot fracture.

You can also experience stress fractures in your feet. These are small cracks that form in your bones over an extended period due to repeated stress. Stress fractures often occur in athletes such as runners, gymnasts, and dancers.

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Events that are likely to cause a foot fracture include:

• Car accidents

• Impact from dropping a heavy item

• Falls

• Missteps

• Overuse

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What increases the risk that I will fracture my foot?

High-impact sports, including dance or soccer, carry an increased risk of stress fractures. If you use improper form during exercise or poor equipment — such as the wrong shoes — you’re also at risk. Other risk factors include:

• A sudden increase in your activity level

• Certain occupations that put you at risk of dropping something on your foot or falling

• Osteoporosis

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How do I know if I’ve broken my foot?

Sometimes, the pain and cause of your break are apparent. However, stress fractures and fractures in smaller bones may be harder to detect. Look for:

• Swelling and pain

• Inability to walk due to pain

• Bruising

In some cases, you may have a broken bone in your foot or ankle and still be able to walk. You’ll notice increased pain, however, especially if you attempt vigorous activities.

At West Morris Foot and Ankle, the doctors use imaging tests, such as X-rays, to diagnose a foot fracture.

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How is a fractured foot treated?

Broken toes usually heal well without a lot of medical intervention. At home, ice, elevation, rest, and stabilization are the best treatments. If other bones in your foot are broken, treatment depends on which bone is affected and how severe the break is. The doctors at West Morris Foot and Ankle may offer crutches, casting, medication, and, in rare cases, surgery.

If you break your ankle, you may need implantation of screws or metal plates to stabilize the joint.

If you’ve broken a bone in your foot or are experiencing foot pain that you suspect might be a fracture, call West Morris Foot and Ankle or book an appointment online.

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Are You Looking for Foot Fracture Treatment  in Roxbury, NJ?

If you are looking for foot fracture pain treatment, you should reach out to a well trained podiatrist. Ready to schedule an appointment? Contact us online or at our office at (973) 370-3759.