Foot Fractures

Each of your feet contains 26 bones, so a foot fracture isn’t limited to one specific area or set of symptoms. This injury can affect different areas of your foot and impact your mobility significantly, so if you’re injured, seek help from skilled podiatrist Joseph Domenico, DPM, and his team at Blackstone Valley Foot and Ankle in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. Knowing the warning signs of a foot fracture can help you seek the right care and avoid complications. Schedule a prompt foot fracture evaluation by calling Blackstone Valley Foot and Ankle or booking online now.

What can cause foot fractures?

A foot fracture occurs when one of your foot bones breaks or cracks. Usually, you can blame this on a sudden injury, such as a fall, collision, misstep, or direct blow. You’re at higher risk playing sports that involve running, jumping, or rapid changes in direction.

However, not every fracture results from a single traumatic event. Stress fractures can develop gradually from repetitive activities that place more stress on a bone than it can withstand. Weakened bones can also make fractures more likely.

When should I suspect my foot is fractured?

Pain is one of the most noticeable symptoms of a foot fracture. However, it’s not always easy to tell the difference between a fracture, sprain, or other foot injury when you’re just describing symptoms. Schedule an evaluation if you experience:

• Significant pain or swelling after an injury
• A change in your foot’s alignment or shape
• Swelling
• Substantial bruising
• Tenderness
• Difficulty walking

Your Blackstone Valley Foot and Ankle provider can examine the foot and, when appropriate, use X-rays or other imaging to identify a fracture and its severity.

How are foot fractures treated, and how long do they take to heal?

Your treatment depends on the specific bone involved, the type of fracture, and whether the bone has shifted out of position. Some fractures can heal with conservative care, such as:

• Rest
• Activity modification
• Supportive footwear
• A walking boot
• A cast

If your fracture is more complicated, you may need foot surgery to repair or realign the bones.

Your Blackstone Valley Foot and Ankle provider also guides your recovery, particularly letting you know how to stay safe with weight-bearing and activity during recovery. 

Following these instructions is important because if you return to normal activity too quickly, you can delay healing or increase your risk of reinjury.

Many uncomplicated foot fractures take approximately 6-8 weeks to heal, although recovery varies. Stress fractures and more complex injuries may require additional time, and symptoms can sometimes persist after the bone has healed.

If you suspect a foot fracture, don't try to “walk it off.” Get an early evaluation at Blackstone Valley Foot and Ankle to protect the injured area so you enjoy a safer (and faster) recovery.

For expert treatment for a foot fracture, call Blackstone Valley Foot and Ankle today or schedule your appointment online.