Unexplained foot fractures may be the first sign of osteoporosis, a bone-thinning disease which affects an estimated 10 million people in the United States. Another 44 million Americans have low bone mass, putting them at risk for osteoporosis, according to the Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation.
The Foundation reports osteoporosis is responsible for two million broken bones and $19 billion in related costs every year.
Frequently referred to as the “silent crippler,” osteoporosis progresses without any symptoms and often isn’t diagnosed until a person experiences pain from a bone fracture. The porous nature of bones in people with osteoporosis makes them more susceptible to bone fractures, especially in the feet.
Because the bones are in a weakened state, normal weight-bearing actions like walking can cause the bones in the foot to break. In fact, many patients visit our office suffering from foot pain only to find out they actually have a stress fracture, without having experienced an injury.
While osteoporosis is most commonly seen in women over age 50, younger people and men are also affected. Early symptoms can
include increased pain with walking accompanied by redness and swelling on the top of the foot.
Oftentimes patients don’t seek treatment for their symptoms for weeks or even months, thinking the pain will pass. The best advice is, don’t ignore foot pain of any type. Early intervention can make all the difference in your treatment and recovery.
Foot and ankle surgeons are able to diagnose osteoporosis through bone density tests, which measure calcium and mineral levels in the bones through low-dose X-ray.
Prevention and early intervention are key. Women should make sure bone density tests are part of their wellness examinations when indicated by their physicians.
If you are diagnosed with osteoporosis, it’s important to protect your feet from stress fractures. Wear shoes that provide support and cushioning, such as athletic running shoes, for extra shock absorption and protection. Custom orthotics may also be recommended to protect the foot from pressure and provide shock absorption, particularly during exercise.
If you are suffering from foot pain or suspect you may have osteoporosis, 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.