Fractures of the Foot

Fractures of the Foot

Foot fractures are a very common problem for a couple of reasons. First our feet are made up many small bones and second, our feet are usually on the front lines in most of human activity. If you are in motion so are your feet.

Here are a few of the most common fractures of the foot and ankle fractures. A fracture of the heel is called a Calcaneus fracture. It’s treatment will depend on how severe the fracture is. There are surgical options as well as immobilization and rest. Without proper care this type of fracture can lead to chronic heel pain.

A talar bone fracture is a horrible injury because of the importance the talar bone plays in both the foot and the ankle. There is connective tissue from the talar to both the hind foot and the ankle and injuries here often require surgical repairs. Complications with a talus fracture are a predisposition to arthritis and chronic foot and/or ankle pain.

A metatarsal fracture is a very common problem and results in mild to severe foot pain. Sudden increases in activity are often behind a metatarsal stress fracture. This type has a nickname of “march fracture” because it is prevalent among new soldiers because they put so much new stress on their feet.

A fracture of the fifth metatarsal is known as a Jones fracture.  People suffering from this type of fracture my notice pain in and around the mid foot to the outside of the foot. This can result in swelling and pain when walking.

A stress fracture occurring in the midfoot below the ankle is called a navicular stress fracture. It is characterized by general pain in the midfoot with more acute pain during activity. This type of stress is commonly treated with a cast.

The above are a just a few of the common fracture in and around the foot. There are many reasons people suffer foot pain and it is not safe to assume you have a some sort of fracture. If you are experiencing any type of foot pain consult a physician or more specifically a podiatrist.