Foot stress fractures and tendonitis are both common foot injuries, but they have distinct differences. A stress fracture is a small crack in the bone caused by repetitive force or overuse. It typically occurs in athletes or individuals who increase their physical activity suddenly. Symptoms of a stress fracture include localized pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest. Tendonitis is inflammation of the tendons, often caused by overuse or wearing improper footwear. This condition leads to pain, swelling, and tenderness surrounding the affected tendon, usually felt during or after activity. While both conditions cause foot pain, a stress fracture will usually cause sharp, focused pain in the bone, while tendonitis presents with more diffuse pain around the tendon area. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment. 

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Lauryn Smith-Winton, DPM from S.W. Podiatry Group. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                  
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Waldorf, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.