Don’t Get Slowed Down by Stress Fractures in Central California
Did you just finish running your first marathon and pushed yourself perhaps a bit too far? Do you have pain or swelling in your foot or ankle? If so, the pain you experience may indicate a stress fracture caused by a sudden increase in physical activity.
Intense exercise, overuse, or repeated movements can lead to a stress fracture — a small crack in your bone. Dignity Health Central California sports medicine doctors can help treat your stress fracture symptoms so you can get running again and back to your active lifestyle.
Find a Doctor who specializes in personalized treatment for stress fractures in Central California.
Healing from Stress Fracture Symptoms at Dignity Health Central California
Stress fractures happen most often in your lower leg and foot. Every day, these weight-bearing bones absorb the impact from activities such as running, jumping, and walking.
Pain is usually the first stress fracture symptom. It may get worse when bearing weight. Tenderness and swelling also may be a sign of this orthopedic condition and common sports injury.
See your doctor if you think you have a stress fracture in your foot, ankle, or shin. Continued use of your leg can cause a complete fracture or broken bone. Imaging tests will help your doctor diagnose a stress fracture.
Our Dignity Health Central California orthopedic and sports medicine team understands the importance of healing your mind, body, and spirit after an injury. Your personalized treatment is based on a philosophy of care, dignity, and respect.
Get Moving Again with Stress Fractures Treatments
Your doctor’s main focus is on healing your bone. Avoiding the activity that caused your injury is the first step. Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), along with crutches, will help relieve your pain and keep weight off of your leg, foot, or ankle.
As you recovery, your doctor may allow no-impact sports, such as biking or swimming. Some foot injuries require a special boot or cast. If you’re bone does not heal completely, orthopedic surgery may be necessary to ease your pain.
You can help prevent stress fractures by:
- Gradually increasing physical activity
- Using proper form
- Wearing newer footwear that fits properly
- Stretching before and after activities
For tips on prevention and effective stress fracture treatment in Central California, contact Dignity Health Central California for care with humankindness.
Dignity Health Central California sports medicine doctors help you stay in the game after a stress fracture in Bakersfield, Merced, San Andreas, and Stockton, CA.