Medically Reviewed by Dr. Rachel N. Verville
April 13, 2018
Your feet not only support the weight of your entire body, but they also have nearly 25% of your body’s bones in them. No wonder proper care of your feet and ankles is so important! Many Frisco residents are at high risk for developing a stress fracture in the foot, either due to their athleticism and high activity level, or a sudden, increased amount of walking, such as when you’re on vacation.
A stress fracture is not something you can self-diagnose or ask Dr. Google to diagnose for you. To get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan in place, you must see a podiatrist like Frisco’s Dr. Verville for a full examination of the foot in question, including X-rays. You can, however, be vigilant and know what signs to look for in the event you suspect you have a stress fracture. Below is a list of signs to watch for if you think you’ve suffered a stress fracture in your foot.
- You Have Pain in Your Foot, Especially when You Are Using It
Let’s just be honest. Stress fractures hurt! These tiny cracks in your bone or deep bruises are often associated with some degree of pain, especially when the foot is in use. And depending on which bone or bones have been fractured, you may even find it difficult to bear weight on your foot or even walk. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, you should see Dr. Verville right away.
- Foot Pain that Subsides when You Rest Your Foot but Comes Back when You Start Using It Again
One of the tell-tale signs of a stress fracture in your foot is when you rest the foot in question, and it starts to feel better. But, as soon as you start using the foot again, the pain comes back with a vengeance. If you are experiencing this phenomenon, you will need to see Dr. Verville immediately for a full evaluation, professional diagnosis, and personalized treatment plan.
- Bruising on Your Foot
If you’ve been giving your all to your sport, quickly upping your athletic intensity, or walking more than usual and have unexplainable bruising on your foot, it could be a sign of a stress fracture.
- Tenderness at the Injury Site
If your foot feels tender at a localized site, perhaps also accompanied with pain, bruising or swelling, it may be a sign that you have a stress fracture in your foot. Tenderness in the feet is not typical and should always be examined by a Frisco podiatrist like Dr. Verville.
- Swelling on the Tops and Sides of Your Feet
A final sign that you may have a stress fracture is if you have unexplained swelling on the tops and sides of your feet. If you experience this, you’ll want to see Dr. Verville right away.
Scheduling an Appointment with Dr. Verville
Dr. Verville understands that many Frisco residents quickly dismiss issues with their feet, thinking they’re just “tired” or “sore,” but urges local residents to seek a medical opinion if they are experiencing the signs of a stress fracture. All stress fractures are different, and as such, all treatment plans will be unique, too. If you are exhibiting any of the above warning signs, call Dr. Verville’s office today at (214) 385-8822.
