If excessive pressure and stress is exerted onto the foot, the result may be a stress fracture. Constant trauma to the foot due to biomechanical conditions such as over pronation (flat feet), in a highly active person such as a runner, would be a primary case for a stress fracture.

Stress fractures develop over a period of time. Warnings of a stress fracture consist of redness, inflammation and pain in a specific area of the lower limb.

An X-ray is usually the best way of determining whether the pain is due to a fracture or not.

Warning Signs!

• Redness
  
  
• Inflammation
  
  
• Pain in lower limb

Prevention & treatment

In the case of a stress fracture seek professional medical advice. Prolonged rest and ice compresses help the foot to recover from a stress fracture, and orthotics provide an effective long-term treatment and prevention device once the fracture has recovered.

• Prolonged rest
  
  
• Ice compresses
  
  
• Orthotic Insoles