Stress fractures of the foot are becoming more common in runners, especially first-time marathoners.
The popularity of marathons and half-marathons in our area attracts runners of all levels. Inexperienced runners are especially susceptible to repetitive stress injuries, including stress fractures of the foot.
Often, first-time marathoners enter a race with little or improper long-distance training. The lack of experience coupled with the repetitive impact on the feet can produce enough stress to cause hairline breaks in the bones of the foot.
Runners who increase their mileage too quickly or change to a more intense phase of training may be more prone to a stress fracture due to the increased force on the bones.
A general rule of thumb for runners is to up your mileage by no more than 10 percent each week. Runners in training also need to rest adequately in between runs to help decrease the risk of a fracture.
Runners of all experience levels are also at higher risk for stress fractures if they wear improper shoes while running or training. Those who suffer from flatfoot or other foot deformities or have osteoporosis are also more at risk.
Signs of a stress fracture can include pain, swelling, redness and possibly bruising of the area. Stress fractures can occur anywhere in the foot and can eventually lead to a complete bone break if left untreated. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to ensure proper healing.
If a break is suspected, follow the RICE protocol—Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation. If pain and swelling last longer than a few days, contact a foot and ankle surgeon for an X-ray and diagnosis.
In most cases, treatment includes rest and immobilization with casting of the foot. Surgery may be required in some cases to repair and stabilize a stress fracture that has progressed into a full fracture.
Runners can take action to prevent repetitive stress injuries in their feet by wearing supportive athletic shoes and slowly building up their activity levels according to their abilities.
If a runner suffers from abnormal foot mechanics, such as over pronation or hypermobility, custom orthotics can also help prevent these injuries.
If you suspect you have a foot injury or fracture, call Wentz Foot & Ankle Specialists for an evaluation at 719-539-6600.
Dr. Ralph Wentz is a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon in Salida and a fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.