Understanding Stress Fractures on the Heel: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and Prevention
As a runner, you are familiar with the sensation of pain in your feet after a long run. While foot pain is common, persistent pain that does not go away after a few days of rest may indicate a stress fracture. This article from London physiotherapy hub One Body LDN will go over the symptoms, causes, treatment, and prevention of stress fractures on the heel.
A stress fracture is a small crack in the bone caused by repeated stress and overuse. While stress fractures can occur in any bone, they are most common in the weight-bearing bones of the lower leg and foot, including the heel bone or calcaneus.
A stress fracture in the heel may cause pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest, as well as swelling, tenderness, and aching in the foot. Pain may be present even while resting or sleeping in severe cases.
Overuse or repetitive stress on the foot, sudden changes in activity or training, improper footwear, or foot abnormalities such as flat feet or high arches are all causes of stress fractures on the heel. Athletes, particularly runners and dancers, are more likely to suffer from stress fractures. Stress fractures can worsen and lead to a complete break in the bone if left untreated. As a result, if you suspect you have a stress fracture in your heel, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Rest, ice, compression, and elevation of the foot are common treatments for stress fractures of the heel. A cast or walking boot may be required in severe cases to immobilise the foot and promote healing. Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen are available over-the-counter.
At sports massage London hub One Body LDN, we provide a variety of services to help prevent and treat stress fractures, such as sports massage and physiotherapy. Our skilled team can assess your foot condition thoroughly, develop a personalised treatment plan, and collaborate with you to ensure a quick and safe recovery.
Preventing stress fractures on the heel entails taking proactive steps to lower your chances of developing them. Wearing proper footwear, gradually increasing your activity level, eating a healthy diet to support bone health, and incorporating weight-bearing exercises into your routine are some of these measures.
In conclusion, stress fractures of the heel can be a painful and frustrating injury for athletes and physically active people. However, with early detection, proper treatment, and prevention strategies, you can recover and resume your normal activities. We at London physiotherapy hub One Body LDN are here to help you on your way to a more active and healthy lifestyle.
