Stress Fractures Are Very Limiting, But Once Treated Won't Keep You Down

Feb. 18, 2011 - PRLog -- Stress Fractures
A stress fracture is a tiny or incomplete crack in a bone that is often caused by overuse. Stress fractures occur most frequently in the foot and ankle. Our onsite podiatrist Dr. Kerch is well trained to diagnose and treat this problem. Her clinic is located at 1201 Pine St. at the base of Capital Hill. She is available for new appointments by calling 206-786-0064.

Stress fractures may be caused by a number of factors. Overuse or strain in the foot (fatigue fracture) is one of the most common causes, while weak bones (insufficiency fracture), caused by medical conditions such as osteoporosis, can also be a factor. Medications such as steroids can lead to stress fractures, as can a sudden increase in activity levels. All of these causes can and should be evaluated by an appointment when you have the signs and symptoms of a stress fracture.

Those signs may include pain that increases with activity and decreases with rest, pain that increases over time, or pain that persists even at rest. Often a stress fracture will result in swelling and a spot that feels tender to the touch.

If you experience any pain during physical activity or any of the symptoms described, you should make an appointment with Dr. Kerch or your own podiatrist. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of a stress fracture can often prevent further injury.
Dr. Kerch will ask you to describe your signs and symptoms and then physically evaluate your foot. While x-rays will most likely be used for diagnosis, often stress fractures do not appear on regular x-rays for several weeks after the symptoms begin. In some cases, the fracture may never appear on an x-ray. In those cases, other diagnostic testing such as MRIs, ultrasounds, or bone scans may be recommended.

Many stress fractures can be treated with rest, ice and over-the-counter
pain relievers. For most people, an appropriate period of rest will be sufficient for the bone to heal. In other cases, Dr. Kerch will develop a treatment program customized to your needs. If you are active in sports, training errors may be responsible for the repetitive forces involved in the etiology of the stress fracture. Assessments and corrective recommendations may be indicated.

Dr. Kerch has noticed an increase of patients presenting with stress fractures recently. "Be on the alert for signs and symptoms of a stress fracture. A diagnostic bone scan is often more sensitive to stress fractures than standard X-rays. However, both may be indicated if a stress fracture is suspected. Certain occupations are associated with an increase incidence of stress fractures."

She says, "Take preventative actions to lower the severity of your stress fracture, to speed up healing or to prevent recurrence. Bracing or custom orthotics and proper shoe gear may be recommended as symtoms necessitate."

At Your 2 Feet therapy package recommendations are available for purchase. You may need to immobilize the affected bone with a cast, cast boot, fracture shoe, or a splint. Dr.Kerch may be able to bill your insurance company for many items. They may be covered depending on your benefits.

Some products available at Your 2 Feet in Capital Hill 206-786-0064:
Trlok ankle brace
Stromgren double strap ankle brace
Pneumatic cast boots
Forefoot compression splint
Compression socks
Supportive shoes

For More Information:http://your2feet.blogspot.com/2011/02/stress-fractures-ar...

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