What Is a Stress Fracture?

A stress fracture is a common sports injury, often occurring in weight-bearing bones, such as the tibia or the bones in the foot. There are typically only a few symptoms related to stress fractures: either a generalized area of pain and tenderness when the bone is bearing weight or severe pain during heavy exercise. Darkening or bruising can often be seen on the skin at the site of a stress fracture.

Our foot and ankle experts at Sierra Pacific Orthopedics say that anyone who suspects they’re suffering from a stress fracture should make an appointment as soon as possible.

Healing will take much longer if someone with a stress fracture continues to put weight on that bone. Athletes often get impatient with their injuries and want to return to activity as soon as possible. However, it’s dangerous and counterproductive to return to play before a stress fracture has time to heal. This can cause the injury to worsen, and further complications may arise.

Treatment and recovery time varies based on the severity of the foot or ankle stress fracture, but a period of rest is almost always required for complete healing.

If you think you may be suffering from a stress fracture of the foot or ankle, call one of our specialty-trained doctors at Sierra Pacific Orthopedics at (559) 256-5200 to schedule an appointment.