Reduce Complications with Proper Treatment
Without proper treatment, a foot fracture can lead to complications such as arthritis, deformity, and an increased risk of injury. If you suffer from a foot fracture, the team of podiatrists at Pinnacle Foot & Ankle Clinics can help. At their offices in Edina and Burnsville, Minnesota, the team works with you to develop the most effective treatment plan for your foot fracture. To speak with a podiatrist about your foot fracture, schedule your visit by phone or book an appointment online today.
Foot Fracture Q&A
What is a foot fracture?
Foot fractures are divided into two categories: stress fractures and acute fractures.
Stress fracture
A stress fracture is a tiny hairline break in your bone. Stress fractures commonly affect weight-bearing areas like the feet and ankles and occur as a result of overuse.
When muscles become fatigued, they are unable to absorb shock or support weight. This excess stress is transferred to the bones, causing tiny cracks to develop.
In many cases, stress fractures are caused by a sudden increase in the intensity of activities such as running or weightlifting.
Acute fracture
Also known as a traumatic fracture, an acute foot fracture refers to a sudden injury that results in a significant break or crack in your bone. Acute fractures are commonly caused by a direct blow or sudden twisting motion.
Acute fractures frequently affect people who play sports such as basketball, soccer, or tennis.
What are the symptoms of a foot fracture?
Symptoms of a foot fracture include:
- Swelling
- Pain
- Bruising
- Difficulty walking
- Inability to bear weight
- Obvious deformity or abnormal appearance
If you suffer from a stress fracture, your symptoms may develop gradually and worsen over time. In the case of an acute fracture, you may notice a cracking sound at the time of injury.
If your fracture is severe, you may experience numbness or tingling near the injury. For any symptoms of a fracture, Pinnacle Foot & Ankle Clinics can determine the right treatment for you.
What foot fracture treatments are available?
Pinnacle Foot & Ankle Clinics offers a number of safe and effective treatments for foot fractures. Before beginning treatment, your podiatrist performs an in-depth physical exam and imaging tests.
Your podiatrist uses the details of your injury to determine the severity of your fracture and the most effective treatment. Depending on your diagnosis, treatment may include:
- RICE (rest, ice, compression, and elevation)
- Pain medication
- Splinting
- Fracture reduction
- Immobilization
If your condition is mild, Pinnacle Foot & Ankle Clinics may suggest RICE or pain medication to help reduce pain and swelling as you heal.
They may also perform fracture reduction to realign your bones and use a cast, brace, or splint to keep your foot immobilized.
Will I need surgery for my foot fracture?
In severe cases, your foot fracture may require surgery. Surgical treatment of foot fractures typically involves the placement of screws and pins to hold the pieces of your bone together.