If you are very active or participate in sports that require a lot of impact, you may be at risk for a stress fracture in your foot. Activities such as basketball, running and aerobics put a lot of pressure on the bones in your feet. If you overdo any of these activities, you may develop a small crack in one of the bones of the foot which can sideline you from the activities you enjoy. Without treatment, stress fractures can get worse. If you recognize any of the signs or symptoms of this condition, see your doctor to get started on the right treatment program. This will allow you to return to the activities you enjoy as soon as possible.
Pain
If you have a stress fracture in your foot you may develop a sharp pain that is sensitive to the touch near the fracture. The pain from a stress fracture is identifiable because it can be localized. If you feel around your foot you will often be able to pinpoint the exact location of the fracture. In addition, you may also experience general foot pain that gets worse with weight-bearing activity but improves with rest. If you do not take steps to treat your stress fracture, the pain will worsen and be present, even when you are not active.
Swelling
Your foot may swell. The swelling may be worse at the top of your foot. You may also find that the area is warm to the touch. At first these symptoms may only occur after you are well into your workout. Without the right care, these symptoms will appear closer to the start of your workout and eventually sideline you completely.
Discoloration
With a stress fracture you may find that your foot becomes a reddish color, bruised or otherwise discolored.
