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.

The foot and ankle doctors at Carolina Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Center 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,” says Dr. Erik C. Johnson, sports medicine and ankle doctor at Carolina Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Center. “If left untreated, the injury could get much worse.”

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

If you are experiencing symptoms of a stress fracture, call one of the foot and ankle doctors at Carolina Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Center at 704-312-4379 to schedule an appointment or or click here to schedule an appointment online. For additional injury information and health tips, “like” Carolina Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Center on Facebook and follow @Carolina_Ortho on Twitter.