Foot Fractures
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Foot fractures may be caused by falls, twisting, or direct impact of a foot against a hard object.
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Foot fractures cause considerable pain, which is usually made worse by putting weight on the foot.
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Doctors usually need to take x-rays to diagnose foot fractures.
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Treatment depends on the bone fractured and the type of fracture but usually involves a splint or a shoe or boot specially designed to protect the foot.
(See also Overview of Fractures.)
Foot fractures are common. They may be caused by falls, twisting, or direct impact of a foot against a hard object.
Foot fractures cause considerable pain, which is almost always made worse by attempting to walk or put weight on the foot.
Diagnosis
(See also Diagnosis of Fractures.)
Diagnosis of foot fractures usually requires x-rays, except for certain toe fractures. Rarely, computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is required.
Treatment
Treatment of foot fractures depends on the bone fractured and the type of fracture, but it usually involves placing the foot and ankle in a splint (then sometimes a cast) or a specially designed shoe or boot with open toes, Velcro fasteners, and a rigid sole to protect the foot from further injury.
People are often instructed not to put any weight on the foot for a period of time. How long they have to wait depends on the injury and can take up to several weeks. Often, doctors encourage people to move the foot and ankle as soon as doing so is not too painful.
Physical therapy is often required. It consists of specific exercises to improve flexibility and movement of the affected foot and to strengthen supporting muscles.
