Q:
I currently have two confirmed metatarsal stress fractures, one in each foot. They have been “healing” since late September, but I am still in considerable pain. What can / should be done for an HPP patient who experiences stress fractures (without trauma) in their feet? What preventative measures should be taken and what should be considered when treating these fractures once they have been diagnosed? (Keeping in mind, they are slow to heal and recurring ….)
A:
The key to the healing of stress fractures is no weight bearing for 6-8 weeks even if you begin to feel better. However, if conservative therapy is proving to be unsuccessful, more aggressive methods may need to be taken, even surgical fixation.