Stress Fracture

A stress fracture is a small crack or severe bruising within a bone, typically caused by repetitive force rather than a single traumatic event. Because the feet and lower legs absorb your body weight with every step, they are especially vulnerable to these injuries. At Ankle & Foot Specialists of Puget Sound, we provide advanced diagnostic care and personalized treatment for stress fractures to help you heal safely and return to activity with confidence.

What Is a Stress Fracture?

Stress fractures occur when bones are subjected to repeated strain and are unable to repair themselves quickly enough. This leads to tiny cracks forming in the bone over time. Although common in athletes—particularly runners, dancers, and military trainees—stress fractures can affect anyone who increases activity too quickly or places excessive stress on the lower body.

The foot and shinbone (tibia) are the most frequently affected areas. Many people initially confuse stress fractures with “shin splints,” but they are distinct conditions:

  • Shin splints are caused by muscle irritation where muscles pull away from the bone.

  • Stress fractures are actual cracks in the bone itself.

Because shin splints can worsen and develop into stress fractures if ignored, early assessment is crucial.

Symptoms of Stress Fractures

Stress fractures often begin subtly but worsen with continued activity. Common symptoms include:

  • Gradual onset of pain during activity

  • Pain that subsides with rest but returns with movement

  • Tenderness or pinpoint pain over the affected bone

  • Swelling around the foot, ankle, or shin

  • Bruising (less common)

  • Pain that increases when weight is applied

Early detection helps prevent the fracture from worsening or becoming a complete break.

What Causes Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures are most often caused by repetitive stress or overuse, but several additional factors can increase your risk:

  • Biomechanical abnormalities (flat feet, high arches, abnormal gait)

  • Weak or inflexible muscles

  • Training on hard or uneven surfaces

  • Sudden increases in physical activity

  • Improper footwear

  • Osteoporosis or decreased bone density

  • Poor nutrition or vitamin deficiencies

  • Family history of bone weakness

Understanding the cause is an essential part of preventing future injuries.

How Stress Fractures Are Diagnosed

Your podiatrist will begin by reviewing your symptoms, activity level, and medical history. A thorough physical exam follows, focusing on areas of pain, tenderness, and swelling.

Because early stress fractures may not appear on initial X-rays, we may also use:

  • Digital X-rays

  • Ultrasound imaging

  • Advanced imaging (MRI or CT scan) for hard-to-detect or complex cases

These tools help confirm the diagnosis and determine the appropriate course of treatment.

Stress Fracture Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the severity and location of the fracture. Our goal is to reduce pain, protect the injured bone, and support full, safe healing.

Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatment

Most stress fractures heal without surgery. Common non-surgical treatments include:

Activity Modification

Reducing or temporarily stopping high-impact activities to prevent further damage.

Protective Footwear

Walking boots, stiff-soled shoes, or supportive footwear help minimize strain on the injured area.

Rest & Offloading

Limiting weight-bearing activities encourages the bone to heal.

Casting or Bracing

In some cases, immobilization is necessary for proper alignment and recovery.

Custom Orthotics

Correct biomechanical issues and reduce pressure on vulnerable bones.

Pain & Inflammation Management

Ice, elevation, and anti-inflammatory medications may help relieve discomfort.

Surgical Treatment for Severe Stress Fractures

When conservative treatments fail—or if the fracture is severe, displaced, or at high risk of complete break—surgical intervention may be recommended.

Surgical options may include:

  • Internal fixation using pins, screws, or plates

  • Bone grafting for slow-healing or recurrent fractures

  • Structural realignment when necessary

Our foot and ankle surgeons use the most advanced techniques to ensure stability, proper healing, and long-term function.

When to See a Stress Fracture Specialist

Schedule an evaluation if you experience:

  • Pain that persists despite rest

  • Difficulty bearing weight

  • Swelling or tenderness over a bone

  • A sudden increase in activity followed by new pain

  • Symptoms that worsen with exercise

  • Foot or shin pain that lasts more than a few days

Early treatment helps prevent the fracture from worsening or becoming a full break.

Get Expert Stress Fracture Care Today

If you suspect a stress fracture, don’t wait—timely treatment is essential for a quick and complete recovery. Our specialists provide comprehensive care to diagnose the injury, relieve pain, and help you return to your normal activities safely.

Contact Ankle & Foot Specialists of Puget Sound today to schedule your appointment and begin your path toward healing.

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