STRESS FRACTURES DISCUSSED BY A PODIATRIST
posted: Sep. 24, 2018.
According to podiatrist Robert Weiss, DPM, "We have been treating a large number of individuals with stress fractures in the past few months. We often find metatarsal-toe bone fractures from walking city streets on the hard surfaces, stubbing toes, but it is more common in sports. In the non-athlete, stress fractures may be caused by a number of factors. Overuse or strain in the foot can cause a fatigue fracture which is very common. Weak bones, caused by medical conditions such as osteoporosis, may result in another type of fracture."
![]() |
Dr. Robert Weiss |
"The use of steroid medication or an increased activity level can also lead to stress fractures. Tell-tale signs to look for include pain that increases with activity and diminishes with rest, pain that increases over time, or pain that persists even at rest. Many times, the stress fracture will have swelling over the affected area with a spot that is painful to the touch. Stress fractures may not show up for a number of weeks, and therefore, may not show in an x-ray. In some cases, an MRI, ultrasound, or bone scan will help make the definitive diagnosis. A stress factor should be treated with rest, ice, and OTC anti-inflammatory medications," says Dr. Weiss.
Source: Fairfield Citizen [9/21/18]
Courtesy of Barry Block, editor of PM News.
Brought to you by Doctor John A. Hardy, owner of Toronto's foot clinic, Academy Foot and Orthotic Clinics.