Items filtered by date: April 2025
Risk Factors and Causes of Foot Stress Fractures

A foot stress fracture is a small crack in a bone that develops due to repetitive stress rather than a sudden injury. It commonly occurs in athletes, especially runners, and individuals who engage in high-impact activities. Causes include overuse, sudden increases in physical activity, and inadequate rest between workouts. Symptoms often begin with mild discomfort that worsens with weight-bearing activities, progressing to persistent pain, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area. Risk factors include footwear that lacks adequate support and cushioning, poor biomechanics, and conditions like osteoporosis that weaken bones. Individuals with a history of stress fractures or nutritional deficiencies may also be more susceptible. If you have symptoms of a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat this condition.
Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact the foot specialists from Spartan Podiatry. Our doctors 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 offices located in Battle Creek, and Marshall, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.