Do I Need Surgery for a Stress Fracture?

A stress fracture very rarely needs surgery, though it does need prompt and careful treatment. For the majority of cases, conservative therapy is enough. You’ll have to take a break from all your hard-impact activities so you don’t continue to aggravate the bone. Depending on the severity of the crack, you may need to wear a cast or special walking boot to reduce the pressure on your foot and keep the limb immobile. Mild hairline cracks may only require a stiff-soled, supportive shoe. Once the bone has sufficiently recovered, you can begin physical therapy to re-condition your feet to handle your activities.

Severe surface fractures or repeated injuries may be too unstable to recover on their own, however. In those cases, surgery may be necessary. A procedure will insert some kind of fastener or pin to keep the cracked portions of bone together so they can heal. Whether you need invasive or conservative treatment, though, you do need care. Let Dr. Darren Silvester at Next Step Foot & Ankle Clinic in Pleasanton, TX, help you take care of your stress fracture. Use the website form or call (210) 375-3318 to reach us for an appointment.