Stress FracturesBone Recovery
Comprehensive treatment for foot and ankle stress fractures with progressive rehabilitation programs.
Stress fractures are small cracks in bones caused by repetitive force and overuse. In the foot and ankle, they commonly occur in the metatarsals, navicular, and calcaneus bones.
These injuries typically develop gradually when the bone cannot adapt to increased stress from activities like running, jumping, or dancing. Early recognition and proper treatment are crucial to prevent progression to complete fractures.
Grade 1
Early stress reaction without fracture lineSymptoms:
- •Mild pain after activity
- •No pain at rest
- •Minimal swelling
Treatment:
Activity modification, rest, gradual return
Prognosis:
Excellent with 2-4 weeks rest
Grade 2
Stress fracture with visible fracture lineSymptoms:
- •Pain during and after activity
- •Mild pain at rest
- •Localized tenderness
Treatment:
Protected weight bearing, immobilization
Prognosis:
Good with 6-8 weeks treatment
Grade 3
Complete stress fracture with displacement riskSymptoms:
- •Severe pain with weight bearing
- •Pain at rest
- •Significant swelling
Treatment:
Non-weight bearing, possible surgery
Prognosis:
Variable, 12+ weeks recovery
Acute Management
0-2 weeksPain relief and prevent progression
Healing Phase
2-8 weeksBone healing and gradual loading
Return to Activity
8-16 weeksGradual return to full activity
Early Phase
Weeks 0-4Pool Walking
Water-based exercise for cardiovascular fitness
Upper Body Strength
Maintain fitness with upper body exercises
Core Strengthening
Planks and core stability exercises
Progressive Loading
Weeks 4-8Weight Bearing Progression
Gradual increase in weight bearing
Calf Raises
Strengthen calf muscles
Balance Training
Single leg balance exercises
Return to Running
Weeks 8-16Walk-Run Progression
Gradual return to running
Plyometric Training
Jumping and hopping exercises
Sport-Specific Drills
Activity-specific movement patterns
Training
Biomechanical
Nutritional
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