Stress fractures are tiny cracks that occur in the bones from overuse or chronic stress and account for 20% of sports medicine injuries. According to Physiopedia, 95% of stress fractures happen in the lower limbs due to weight-bearing activities.
Although stress fractures seem small, they cause pain and impaired mobility. Knowing what to do during the recovery process helps the bone heal efficiently, allowing you to return to your activities.
Our Spine and Orthopedic Center of New Mexico team offers a range of strategies to help heal fractures. Dr. Omar Osmani and Dr. David Ball are specialists in orthopedics and podiatry, respectively.
We provide immediate care at our walk-in urgent care facility in Roswell, New Mexico, as well as physical therapy and surgery if necessary.
A stress fracture is a tiny crack in the bone that occurs from overstressing the area. It’s an overuse injury that often occurs in the feet and legs. However, it can also affect the spine and hips.
Athletes are prone to stress fractures from constant wear and tear on specific areas. Runners are at a higher risk of foot stress fractures, especially when running more than 25 miles per week.
Stress fractures cause various symptoms that range from mild to severe. You may have a stress fracture if you experience any of the following:
Pain from a stress fracture affects a wide area, but it’s worse right over the bone. Swelling is intermittent, especially after physical activity.
The recovery time from a stress fracture varies, depending on its severity and location. Your individual healing rate and overall health also contribute to recovery time.
Most stress fractures heal within eight weeks of the injury, provided there is proper rest and rehabilitation. However, foot fractures can take up to 12 weeks, while other stress fractures may take as long as 6 months.
Healing a stress fracture is crucial to getting back on your feet. Various helpful strategies allow it to heal effectively and quickly, and they include:
The most critical aspect of recovery is rest. Stop activities that stress the foot for several weeks to allow the bone to heal. Avoid putting weight or pressure on the injury to avoid complications.
Immobilization is critical for a stress fracture. A cast or splint is necessary to keep the bone immobile while it heals. Avoid putting pressure on the injury until we clear you to do so, as this can slow the healing process.
While resting, elevate the injury on a pillow and apply ice several times a day. Elevating the injury reduces swelling, while ice decreases pain and inflammation, promoting a better healing environment.
Anti-inflammatory medications help decrease pain and swelling during the first few weeks. Take these medications as prescribed and as directed, allowing the fracture to heal with less pain.
Physical therapy is a crucial component in the healing process. During your appointments, a physical therapist creates a customized plan to help you regain strength, balance, and range of motion affected by the injury.
They also provide you with exercises and stretches that help aid in healing and prevent further injury.
A stress fracture requires time to heal, especially by avoiding activities that strain the bone. We provide you with specific guidelines on when you can put weight on the area and how to return to activity, ensuring the bone heals fully and gradually.
A diet rich in protein and essential vitamins is crucial for bone healing. Foods that contain vitamin D and calcium support bone cell growth, while protein aids the body in the healing process.
To learn more about stress fracture healing strategies, please call our Roswell, New Mexico, office today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Ball or Dr. Osmani. You may also request one online through our website.
