5 Treatment Options for Your Stress Fracture

Stress fractures are tough.

A stress fracture is a tiny crack or break in your bone. Because it typically results from overuse, it often doesn’t show up right away. You just feel a dull ache that gets worse when you’re active and better when you rest.

Stress fractures usually occur in the lower extremities, such as the feet and ankles, that bear the most body weight. When the fracture finally shows up on an X-ray (or maybe a CT scan or MRI), your pain has gotten worse, and it’s time for treatment.

Here at Austin Foot & Ankle Institute, board-certified orthopedic surgeon Pedro E. Cosculluela, MD, diagnoses and treats stress fractures regularly. Here are five treatment options he may recommend:

1. Rest

The first thing you need to do is get off your feet. One of the primary causes of stress fractures is repetitive activity, so stopping that activity is key to recovery. That’s hard, especially for athletes, but the longer you wait to rest, the longer your recovery takes.

You likely need to rest for 6-8 weeks, following the RICE protocol (rest, ice, compression, elevation). Depending on your situation, an alternative, low-impact activity such as swimming or biking may work well during your rest period.

2. Custom orthotics

Because most of us can’t be completely inactive for two months, some mobility is necessary. Custom orthotics can help you heal by absorbing some of the shock when your foot hits the ground and reducing the stress on the bones in your foot and lower leg. 

Because they’re custom-designed, orthotics can also improve your biomechanics, reducing your pain and lessening the fatigue in your lower extremities.

3. Anti-inflammatory pain relievers

Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help relieve pain. While not a long-term solution, these medications can make you more comfortable during your recovery.

4. Protective footwear

Protective orthopedic footwear can help you recover from a stress fracture by reducing impact and stress in your daily activities. Options could include stiff-soled shoes that keep your foot from flexing or bending or wood-soled therapeutic sandals that protect your feet.

5. Assistive devices

Some stress fractures take longer to heal and need a cast or brace to keep your bones in a fixed position. This treatment may include a walking boot, an air cast, or a fiberglass leg cast. If you have a cast, you may also need crutches or a wheelchair to help you move around.

If you think you may have a stress fracture, the team at Austin Foot & Ankle Institute is here to help. Call the location nearest you, in Austin or Bee Cave, Texas, today to schedule an appointment. If you need to see us quickly, we offer a walk-in option.