Stress fracture – two words that all athletes hate and probably do not want to talk about. But if you’re planning to take on running or other sports for that matter, you should definitely know what a stress fracture is all about.

 

What Is a Stress Fracture?

A stress fracture is a small crack and/or severe bruising in a bone that is the result of overuse or repetitive movements. It is pretty common among athletes and physically active people who like to engage in such activities as jogging, basketball, or soccer. It often happens when the person abruptly changes an important part of his or her activity, like running outdoors when he or she is used to hopping on a treadmill. It can also happen when the intensity of workouts is bumped up. For others still, weakened bones due to osteoporosis can lead to a stress fracture even when just doing normal daily activities like going up or down the steps in their home.

 

Symptoms You Should Watch Out For

Pain is the most common symptom, but there are other things that could tell you that you may be suffering from a stress fracture, including:

  • Pain that goes away with rest and gets worse with normal physical activities
  • Pinprick-type of pain or tenderness where the fracture may be
  • Bruising
  • Swelling outside the ankle and/or on top of the foot

How Chiropractic Care Can Help with Stress Fractures

The fractured bone will not be manipulated by a chiropractor, but he can definitely work on the issues that could be contributing factors to the injury itself. The process can involve:

  • Improving coordination by balancing weight-bearing joints
  • Improving joint mechanics
  • Physiotherapy sessions for the promotion of speedy healing
  • Proper education and training to help avoid any injury in the future

 

Let Back in Balance Help!

Are you suffering from a painful stress fracture? You may benefit from the chiropractic care that we offer at Back in Balance. We regularly work with athletes and other patients and help them speed up their recovery, improve function, and more importantly, prevent any further injury. It is important that you make an appointment as soon as you can if you suspect that you have a stress fracture because the healing process can take longer if you have a stress fracture and you continue to allow that bone to take on weight. Avoid further injury and call now!