For individuals who prefer to avoid doctor’s offices and hospitals, it may seem tempting to let a minor stress fracture heal on its own. However, significant dangers may present in fractures or broken bones that a doctor does not set correctly. Therefore, as tempting as it may be to let things heal on their own, you should see a doctor right away if you suspect you may have a foot fracture.
How To Tell You Have A Foot Fracture
Foot fractures generally occur suddenly and are often accompanied by instant pain, redness, swelling, great difficulty walking, or inability to walk at all. Foot fractures left untreated can severely impair your quality of life if they are left to heal independently. In addition, some foot fractures may not heal at all if left alone.
When A Stress Fracture That Heals On Its Own
Stress fractures can bind on their own, knitting the broken parts of the bones together. However, this can present even more problems than the original broken foot bone, when the bones heal incorrectly. Broken bones that a doctor does not set can knit together out of place and may have to be re-broken to set properly.
Bones can also not heal at all or may be significantly delayed in healing, causing swelling, inflammation, and pain. In addition, other health conditions like diabetes, tobacco use, old age, and more can contribute to poor bone health and can inhibit the regrowth of the new tissue that allows your bones to heal.
How Do Bones Heal?
You may be curious about what goes into the healing of foot fractures. First, a podiatrist may take X-rays to determine the extent of the injury. Once the doctor has set the broken bone, you may be required to wear a cast or brace for a while until the bone starts to heal.
There are a few things that are required for bones to heal correctly.
- Stability – bones that are not set correctly can heal misaligned. Stability is required for bones to retain structural integrity and prevent future problems.
- Blood Supply – your blood is the primary healing agent for broken bones. Any medical condition that hampers your blood’s healing abilities will also inhibit proper healing for foot fractures.
- Nutrients – making sure you have the appropriate vitamins and minerals in your diet is essential all the time. When you have a foot fracture, it becomes even more critical that you get the proper nutrients.
What To Do If You Think You Have A Stress Fracture
If you feel any sudden pain in your feet, especially after a fall, you should see a doctor right away. This is especially critical if you are unable to put weight on your foot. If you are in the NYC area, the Best Foot Doctor has offices in Queens, Manhattan, and Brooklyn open and available for appointments. Please contact us to schedule an appointment.