Can Your Stress Fracture Be a Sign of an Underlying Medical Condition?

Unexplained foot fractures may be the first sign of osteoporosis, a bone thinning disease which affects over 28 million Americans and accounts for 1.5 million bone fractures a year.

Osteoporosis is frequently referred to as the “silent crippler” since it often progresses without any symptoms or isn’t diagnosed until a person experiences pain from a bone fracture. The porous nature of bones in people with osteoporosis makes them more susceptible to bone fractures, especially in the feet. Because the bones are in a weakened state, normal weight-bearing actions like walking can cause the bones in the foot to break. In fact, many patients visit their foot and ankle surgeon suffering from foot pain only to find out they actually have a stress fracture, without having experienced an injury.

Osteoporosis is most commonly seen in women over age 50, however younger people and men are also affected. Early symptoms can include increased pain with walking accompanied by redness and swelling on the top of the foot.

Diagnose of osteoporosis can be done through a bone densitometry test, which measures calcium and mineral levels in the bones through low-dose radiation x-ray or possibly through a routine x-ray.

If you are diagnosed with osteoporosis, it’s important to protect your feet from stress fractures. Wear shoes that provide support and cushioning, such as athletic running shoes, to provide extra shock absorption and protection. Custom orthotics may also be recommended to protect the foot from pressure and provide shock absorption, particularly during exercise.

If you are suffering from foot pain or suspect you may have osteoporosis, call our office at 440-946-5858 for an evaluation, or conveniently schedule your appointment online at www.drrobertrosenstein.com.