Patient Discusses Foot Fracture - Podiatrist in San Mateo and Half Moon Bay, CA

Foot Fracture Patient - Podiatrist in San Mateo and Half Moon Bay, CA

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Nearly one-fourth of all the bones in your body are in your feet. A broken (fractured) bone

in your forefoot or in one of your toes is often painful, but rarely disabling. Most of the

time, these injuries heal without operative treatment.

There are two types of foot fractures: stress fractures and general bone fractures. Stress

fractures usually occur in the bones of the forefoot extending from the toes to the middle

of the foot. Stress fractures are like tiny cracks in the bone surface. They can happen with

sudden increases in exercise (such as running or walking for longer distances or times),

improper training techniques, or a change in surfaces.

Most other types of fractures extend through the bone, and are called bone fractures. They

may be stable, in which there is no shift in bone alignment, or displaced, in which the bone

ends no longer line up properly. Bone fractures usually result from trauma, such as dropping

a heavy object on your foot, or from a twisting injury. If the fractured bone does not break

through the skin, it is called a closed fracture. If the fracture does break through the

skin, it is called an open fracture.

Because of the complex structures in the foot, there are some other, more specific types of

fractures that can occur. For example, the fifth metatarsal, known as the little or pinky

toe, is susceptible to a variety of different fractures. The relationship between the ankle

and the foot can be compromised by an ankle-twisting injury, which may tear the tendon that

attaches to this bone and pull a small piece of the bone away. A more serious injury in the

same area is known as a Jones fracture, which occurs near the base of the bone and disrupts

its blood supply. This injury may take longer to heal or require surgery.

Common symptoms for any type of foot fracture includes pain, swelling, and sometimes

bruising. Be sure to seek medical attention for any suspected foot fracture.

Visit our website: http://www.footcarespecialists.com