Stress fractures in the foot are very common, especially among athletes. Generally, a stress fracture occurs over time, as a particular bone in the foot is subjected to long periods of stress from running, biking, walking, or another physical activity. Unfortunately, stress fractures can take awhile to heal, which is why it's important that you take the necessary steps to promote a quick recovery so you can get back to your normal way of life.
Ensure a Quick, Accurate Diagnosis
Perhaps the best way to promote a speedy recovery from a stress fracture is to make sure you have it diagnosed and treated as early on as possible. If you're an athlete who puts a lot of stress on your feet and you begin experiencing a sharp pain in a centralized area on your foot, make an appointment with a foot doctor right away. Don't wait until days or even weeks later when the pain is unbearable; by then, you could be dealing with a full-on fracture, which will take a lot longer to heal.
Wear Your Walking Boot
More than likely, if your doctor suspects a stress fracture, he or she will give you a walking boot or air cast that should be worn at all times (aside from when driving, if necessary, and when bathing or sleeping). The purpose of this boot is not only to immobilize the foot and speed up healing, but to promote more blood circulation to the affected area (which also promotes faster healing). It might be tempting to stop wearing the boot once your pain begins to subside, but it's important to wear it consistently until your doctor tells you otherwise.
Get Plenty of Vitamin D and Calcium
Vitamin D and calcium are important for building strong and healthy bones, so if you're not enough of this in your diet as it is, now might be a good time to begin looking into taking vitamin D and/or calcium supplements, or finding other ways to incorporate them into your diet.
Don't Overdo the Physical Activity
Finally, even if you're wearing a walking boot, it's best to try limiting your physical activity as your stress fracture heals. This can be difficult for many athletes to do, but the more time you give your stress fracture to heal and the less pressure you put on it in the meantime, the sooner you can get back to your favorite sports and activities.
For more information about sports medicine, visit Orthopedic Rehab.
Share4 September 2015
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