Stress Fractures

A stress fracture is a small crack or severe bruising within a bone. Most common in weight-bearing bones of the lower leg and foot, these overuse injuries occur when repetitive force overwhelms the bone’s natural ability to repair itself.

Symptoms

• Pain that develops gradually and worsens during weight-bearing activity
• Localized tenderness when pressing on the specific bone
• Swelling on the top of the foot or outside of the ankle
• Pain that subsides with rest but returns with activity

Causes

Stress fractures result from repetitive stress and micro-trauma, often caused by rapid increases in physical activity, improper technique, or training on hard surfaces.

Risk Factors

• High-impact sports (running, gymnastics, basketball)
• Sudden spikes in workout intensity or duration
• Foot mechanics (flat feet or high arches)
• Inadequate footwear or poor nutrition
• Prior stress fractures or low bone density

Diagnosis

Our sports medicine specialists evaluate your medical history and conduct a physical exam. Advanced imaging—such as X-rays, MRI, or bone scans—pinpoints the exact location and severity of the fracture.

Treatment

Recovery focuses on bone healing through rest, activity modification, protective footwear, or bracing. Severe cases may require physical therapy or surgical intervention.