Foot Fracture Treatment in Sacramento, CA
Nearly one-fourth of the bones in your body are in your feet, so foot fractures are common. While most are rarely debilitating, they need proper care to heal correctly. Dennis Grandy, DPM diagnoses and treats stress fractures and broken bones in the foot so you can return to your normal activities. Call (916) 920-0371 to schedule your evaluation.
Types of Foot Fractures
There are two main types of foot fractures:
- Stress fractures are small cracks on the surface of the bone. They typically occur in the metatarsal bones between the toes and the middle of the foot, usually as a result of repetitive physical activity or a sudden increase in training.
- General bone fractures extend through the bone and are usually caused by trauma, such as a fall, a hard impact, or dropping something heavy on the foot.
Symptoms of a Foot Fracture
- Pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest
- Swelling, bruising, or tenderness at a specific spot
- Difficulty bearing weight or walking
- Visible deformity in more severe fractures
Because a fracture and a severe ankle sprain can feel similar, an X-ray is often needed to make an accurate diagnosis.
Foot Fracture Treatment
Depending on the fracture and its location, different treatments will be discussed. Many foot fractures heal on their own with rest, protective footwear, a walking boot, or a cast, while more serious cases may require surgery. Dr. Grandy will guide you through each stage of healing and a safe return to activity. It is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible if you suspect your foot is fractured so treatment can begin right away.
Preventing Future Fractures
Increase training intensity gradually, wear supportive shoes, and address foot mechanics that place extra stress on certain bones. custom orthotics can help distribute pressure more evenly. Athletes can benefit from our sports medicine care, and older adults with bone loss should ask about our geriatric foot care.
Foot Fracture FAQs
How do I know if my foot is broken?
Signs include pain at a specific spot, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. An X-ray is often needed to confirm a fracture.
What is a stress fracture?
A stress fracture is a small crack on the surface of a bone, usually caused by repetitive activity or a sudden increase in training.
Can I walk on a fractured foot?
Walking on a fracture can make it worse. Limit weight-bearing and have the injury evaluated as soon as possible.
How long does a foot fracture take to heal?
Most foot fractures take about six to eight weeks to heal, though recovery time depends on the location and severity.
Do foot fractures require surgery?
Most heal without surgery using rest, a boot, or a cast. Surgery may be needed for displaced or severe fractures.
What happens if a foot fracture is not treated?
An untreated fracture may heal improperly, leading to chronic pain, arthritis, or deformity.
How can I prevent stress fractures?
Increase activity gradually, wear supportive shoes, cross-train, and correct foot mechanics with orthotics if needed.
Get Your Foot Injury Evaluated
Fast diagnosis helps fractures heal properly. Call (916) 920-0371 to schedule an appointment with Dennis Grandy, DPM.