Summary
- Stress Fractures are common in the feet, particularly the metatarsals, and occur when excessive repetitive force is applied to a localized area of bone.
- Activities such as walking, running, and repeated jumping can subject the bones of the foot to large forces that may lead to a stress fracture.
- Low calcium, vitamin D, and osteoporosis can also contribute or lead to stress fractures.
Diagnostic tips
- Significant pain in the region, especially on longitudinal stress/pressure.
- There are often no signs but there may be some swelling
- Difficulty in shoes
- Difficulty in walking / exercise
- Only painful on activity
Tests and Imaging
- X-rays may reveal calluses.
- Bone scans and MRIs are more likely to be positive in stress fractures. MRI may reveal odema in bones.
- CT scan can usually confirm the diagnosis of stress fracture as well as clearly define the location and size of the fracture.
Immediate Treatment
- Advise appropriate shoes and limit activity.
- Consider immobilisation.
Possible Referral
- Podiatry for bracing/immobilisation, orthoses, footwear advice.
- Foot and ankle surgeon for possible internal fixation.