Foot Fracture Specialist

What are the symptoms of a foot fracture?

A fractured foot can result in a number of symptoms, including:

• Swelling
• Redness
• Tenderness
• Difficulty bearing weight
• Deformity

Fractures can also cause throbbing pain or pain that increases with activity. Fractures force your bones out of alignment and may result in an obvious deformity. In some cases, the fractured bone breaks through the skin, causing an open wound. 

If you experience symptoms of a fractured foot, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Without proper treatment, your fracture can worsen or heal improperly, causing long-term complications with your foot health and mobility.  

What is a stress fracture?

A stress fracture is a type of fracture that commonly affects weight-bearing areas of the body like the feet and ankles. A stress fracture is a small, hairline crack in the bone that’s typically caused by overuse and repetitive stress. 

Normally, your body breaks down old bone and replaces it with new bone tissue. Repetitive stress and overuse prevent your bones from healing themselves, causing them to become weak and prone to stress fractures.

Stress fractures are common in high-impact sports like basketball, tennis, and gymnastics. Runners also frequently experience stress fractures. Without proper treatment, stress fractures can increase your risk of developing additional fractures.   

How are foot fractures treated?

How your foot fracture is treated depends on the severity of your condition. Before you begin treatment, your doctor performs a physical exam and conducts imaging tests like an X-ray or MRI. 

If your bones are displaced, your doctor may manipulate the pieces to realign your foot (reduction) and use a cast, boot, or brace to immobilize your foot and help your bones heal. 

If you have a stress fracture, your doctor may suggest rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) and limited activity to allow your bones time to heal. 

If your fracture is severe, your doctor may recommend surgery to realign the pieces of your broken bone with screws, pins, or plates. 

The board-certified podiatrists at Godoy Foot & Ankle Center have extensive experience successfully treating a wide range of foot fractures. To find out which treatment is right for you, book your appointment by phone or online today.