Very simply, a fracture is a broken bone which requires immediate attention. The human body is made up of 206 bones of which 25% are found in the feet. Foot bone fractures are very painful, need proper diagnosis and treatment and plenty of rest to heal properly.

Types of fractures:

• Stress fractures are small cracks in the surface of the bone and the forefoot
• General fractures occur when the break travels into the bone. Usually such fractures are stable or displaced where the bones are not in proper alignment or the bone has pierced through the skin

Causes of fractures:

• Accidents causing sudden impact to the foot
• Objects that fall and crush the bones in the foot
• Jarring jolts or falls
• Bones breaking due to sudden twisting of the foot
• Osteoporosis which weakens the bones

Symptoms of fractures:

• Bruising around the injured area
• Pain and swelling
• Tender and sensitive to touch
• Problem putting weight on the foot

Non-surgical treatment:

• Application of ice
• Elevation of the affected leg
• Wearing a compression wrap to immobilize and protect the foot
• Resting the foot by keeping the weight off it

Fractures can take several weeks to several months to heal, depending on the severity of the injury. A good podiatrist will make the diagnosis after an extensive examination and recommend treatment accordingly. Our board certified podiatrist, Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, serving the people of Syracuse, specializes in reconstructive foot and ankle surgery and diabetic foot care along with a myriad of pedal problems. Syracuse Podiatry is located in Fayetteville, NY and our team of caring and committed professionals together with Dr. D’Amico work hard to improve the quality of life for our patients. Contact our office at (315) 446 3668 to make an appointment with Dr. D’Amico, especially if the pain does not go away and the bone does not heal.