Treatment for Stress Fractures

11 Dec Treatment for Stress Fractures

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures are tiny cracks that develop along a bone that has undergone the result of overuse and excessive stress. Commonly, bones that offer support such as the tibia can be at a higher risk of experiencing a stress fracture. In some cases, stress fractures can ultimately lead to a break if left untreated. If you suspect that you have developed a stress fracture, you need to consult with a trained orthopedist in Wantagh over at Advanced Orthopedics & Joint Preservation. Dr. Stanislav Avshalumov, an Orthopedist in Wantagh, has been treating various types of fractures for several years and has developed a strong reputation for his insight, knowledge, and professionalism within the field.

What Causes Stress Fractures?

Repetitive physical activities

Intense repetitive physical activities are the main causes of stress fractures. Specifically, routines that include heavy lifting, running or jumping.

Sports

Certain sports that require frequent movements typically places its participants with a higher risk for stress fractures. Sports that have shown to be a risk for stress fractures can include the following:

• Track and Field
• Basketball
• Dance
• Gymnastics

Athletes are especially susceptible to develop a stress fracture due to the varying changes of intensity and environment. If you’re an athlete looking for an orthopedist in Wantagh, contact our offices today.

Increased activity

Transitioning from an inactive lifestyle to an active way of life can be exhilarating. However, it’s often the case that people over exude themselves by participating in increasingly intense activities. This, unfortunately, can lead to the development of a stress fracture because the bones are not used to the intense stress of such activities.

Lack of nutrients

Your body must have vitamin D to absorb calcium and promote bone growth. An insufficient intake of vitamin D could put you at risk of fragile bones which are more likely to experience a fracture.

Signs of a Stress Fracture

Stress fracture symptoms vary widely. However, the main complaint among patients is varying levels of pain. Patients describe a dull pain that gradually worsens if not tended to. Here are some other signs that may indicate a stress fracture.

• Swelling
• Redness
• Bruising

If these symptoms persist, you may need to consult an orthopedist in Wantagh who will help you formulate a treatment plan to relieve your pain and begin your healing process.

How to Prevent a Stress Fracture

Naturally, prevention can be beneficial in order to take a proactive approach to avoid injuries. Here are some simple prevention steps and ideas that an orthopedist in Wantagh has researched to be effective:

• Take time to adjust to new activities – It’s always a good idea to gradually build up the tolerance to a new activity. When undergoing a change in your environment or seeking new physical activity, give your body time to adjust.
• Alternate between activities – Intense activities provide a plethora of health benefits, but it is wise to mix in some low-impact activities as well, balance is key.
• Eating healthy – Eating healthy should be a no-brainer, but it is certainly worth mentioning. For healthy bones, have a steady diet of calcium and vitamin D rich foods.
• Use appropriate equipment – Always check to make sure your equipment i.e. shoes are not faulty. Maneuvering in a faulty shoe is a common stimulant for triggering a slip or a fall, putting you at risk for a fracture.
• Rest – Giving yourself time to heal is vitally important. During or after an activity, if you’re experiencing unusual pain, don’t push through the pain as it may be a better idea to rest for an extended period of time. Resting gives the body an opportunity to self-heal and it’s a great way to avoid escalating an injury.

If pain or swelling occurs for a few days after resting, we advise that you see an orthopedist in Wantagh. Contact the office of Advanced Orthopedics & Joint Preservation today for an appointment and consultation.