- Podiatrists in Sippy Downs, Woombye & In Home
Stress Fractures
A stress fracture is a small crack or severe bruising within a bone, typically caused by repetitive forces. These micro-injuries are prevalent among athletes, military personnel, and individuals with an active lifestyle. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for preventing further complications and ensuring a swift recovery.
What are stress fractures?
Stress fractures are tiny cracks in a bone that develop from repeated application of force, often from overuse. Unlike acute fractures that result from a single traumatic event, stress fractures accumulate over time due to sustained stress on the bone.
Causes of Stress Fractures
Stress fractures are commonly caused by several factors, including:
- Repetitive Activity: Activities that put repeated stress on the bones, such as running, jumping, can lead to stress fractures.
- Changes in Activity Levels: Abruptly increasing the intensity or duration of physical activities can overwhelm the bones.
- Poor Fitness Levels: Individuals who lack proper physical conditioning are more susceptible.
- Improper Footwear: Wearing shoes that do not provide adequate support can exacerbate the risk.
- Bone Health Issues: Conditions like osteoporosis weaken the bones, making them more prone to fractures
Stress Fracture Symptoms
Symptoms of stress fractures can vary but often include:
- Pain: Initial pain may be mild and only present during activity but can progress to persistent pain even at rest.
- Swelling: The area around the fracture may become swollen and tender to touch.
- Bruising: In some cases, bruising may appear around the affected area.
- Loss of Function: There may be a noticeable decrease in the ability to bear weight or engage in normal activities
Diagnosis
Effective diagnosis of stress fractures involves:
- Medical History: A thorough review of the patient’s activity levels, symptoms, and health history.
- Physical Examination: Checking for signs of tenderness, swelling, and pain.
- Imaging Tests: X-rays, although stress fractures may not be visible initially. An MRI or bone scan may be required for a more definitive diagnosis.
Stress Fracture Treatments
Treatment focuses on relieving pain, promoting healing, and preventing further injury, including:
- Rest: Stopping the activity that caused the fracture and limiting weight-bearing activities.
- Protective Footwear: Using supportive shoes or a foot brace to minimise stress on the injured area.
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relief medications can help manage pain and inflammation.
- Exercise Rehab Plan: Rehabilitation exercises to strengthen muscles and improve bone health.
- Gradual Return to Activity: Slowly reintroducing physical activity as the fracture heals under professional guidance.
Preventing Stress Fractures
Preventing stress fractures is essential for maintaining bone health and includes:
- Gradual Progression of Activities: Increasing the intensity and duration of physical activities slowly.
- Proper Footwear: Using appropriate shoes that offer sufficient support and cushioning.
- Cross-Training: Incorporating a variety of physical activities to avoid repetitive stress on one particular set of muscles or bones.
- Strength Training: Enhancing bone density and muscular strength through regular, targeted exercises.
- Adequate Nutrition: Ensuring a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to support bone health.
Our Podiatrists
Our team of Sunshine Coast Podiatrists have decades of experience treating all hip, knee, leg, ankle, foot and heel pain as well as a range of skin and nail conditions including ingrown toenails, fungal nail infections, warts and more.
They share a passion for helping the community stay strong and active, helping them achieve their ultimate health outcomes.
Their experience combined with the best treatment technologies available, allow us to achieve the best outcomes for our community.
Benefits of a personalised treatment plan
Reduced Pain
Using the worlds best treatment technology and methods, we can accelerate your recovery to achieve your ultimate health outcome sooner.
Increased Strength
With a prescribed exercise rehab program, your surrounding muscles will strengthen and take the load off your affected tissue. The result is lasting pain relief.
Become More Active
Working with your Podiatrist to complete your personalised treatment plan, you'll be able to do more of the things you love with friends and family.
How it works
1. Schedule an Appointment
Book online or call one of our friendly reception staff on 07 5328 3588 to find a time that suits you.
2. We Handle the Details
Our experienced Podiatrists will diagnose, create a custom treatment plan and treat in the very first session.
3. Be More Active With Less Pain
Spend more time with your family and friends being active and doing the things you love.
What you'll get...
Experienced Podiatrists
Our Podiatrists have decades of experience treating an array of conditions.
Comprehensive Consultations
Our Podiatrists will leave no stone unturned in finding the root cause of your issue.
Personalised Treatment Plans
Our Podiatrists will create a truly custom treatment plan to achieve your ideal outcomes.
Communication
Our Podiatrists will clearly explain your condition, providing insight into its nature and treatment options.
Best Treatment Technology
We utilise state-of-the-art treatment technologies including: Shockwave Therapy, 3D Laser Scanners, Lunula Fungal Nail Laser to provide our patients with the best possible care.
On-site Manufacturing
Our on-site orthotics manufacturing lab allows us to do same or next day orthotic dispenses.