Here’s Why Women Get More Stress Fractures

Studies show that women are at a greater risk of developing stress fractures than men. Reasons for this increased risk include hormonal differences, increased bone density, and higher rates of inadequate nutrition.

Now, athletes in general are at the highest risk for this injury. And that’s because they often change the intensity, frequency or duration of their workouts.

Luckily, during COVID 19 lockdowns, incidents of foot and ankle fractures in general went down. Especially those cases that required surgery to repair the bone break. But, because women’s risk comes from irregular menstrual cycles and low weight (defined as less than 75 percent of the ideal body weight) their rates of injury are largely unaffected. So, what are stress fractures, and how do we diagnose and treat them? Read on to find out more!

What are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures are small cracks that develop in the bone after being stressed, and are most common in the foot, ankle, and lower leg but can occur on bones throughout the body. Symptoms include swelling, bruising and tenderness at the site of the fracture.

Your pain will get worse when you stand, walk or run for a longer time. At first, it may improve with rest. But, left untreated, stress fractures can become more painful and more severe. If you would like assistance in treating a stress fracture in the foot or ankle, consult with our team of skilled Spring and Tomball TX podiatrists at Louetta Foot and Ankle Specialists, P.A.

Coping with Podiatric Stress Fractures

Stress Fractures occur on the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken as a result of overexertion or underuse.  As a result, the ankles and feet lose support when walking or running from the ground. Since these bones are not protected, they receive the full impact of each step. The stress on the feet causes the bones to form cracks.

Our podiatrists in Spring, TX are here to help you bounce back from this kind of overuse injury. That’s what we did for the the daughter of our patient Cassia G., who recently shared:

“Dr. Walsh is excellent with dancers and athletes. Last spring my daughter suffered a “dancers break” in her foot that had her sidelined at the start of competition season. Dr. Walsh was so positive and encouraging that she would bounce back from her injury. She treated the fracture and then helped her get it rehabbed so that she was able to return for the end of the season, win first place with her solo, and successfully try out for the Klein Cain Legacies. We are so thankful for a doctor who partnered with us to help my daughter keep doing what she loves! Highly recommend!” 

Stress Fractures: Risks for Women and Athletes

Cassia’s daughter’s experience makes our point clear: women and athlete are at higher risk because they are highly active and involved in sports or activities that make excessive use of their legs and feet. Stress fractures are especially common among:

-athletes (gymnasts, tennis players, basketball players)

-runners/joggers

-osteoporosis patients

-those who engage in high-intensity workouts

For more information about Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle, follow the link below.

If you have any questions, please contact one of our offices in Spring and Tomball, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

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