Stress Fractures

Stress Fracture Treatment in Northwest Arkansas

Heal the bone. Protect your future. Stay active with confidence.

Stress fractures are tiny cracks in the bone caused by repetitive force or overuse, common in runners, athletes, and anyone who suddenly increases activity. They may start as a mild ache but can quickly progress into sharper, activity-limiting pain if not treated properly.

At Arkansas Foot & Ankle Specialists, we take a precise, patient-focused approach to diagnosing and treating stress fractures. Our goal is simple: help the bone heal fully, protect the injured area, and get you safely back to the movement you love.

What Are Stress Fractures?

A stress fracture develops when a bone is repeatedly loaded without enough time to recover. Over time, this causes microscopic cracks thatlead to pain, swelling, and tenderness.

Common signs include:

Pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest
Swelling or mild bruising
Tenderness when pressing on a specific spot
Difficulty with running or prolonged walking

What Causes Stress Fractures?

These injuries often develop from:

Rapid increases in activity or training
High-impact sports such as running, basketball, or dance
Worn or unsupportive footwear
Foot structure that increases stress on bones
Conditions that weaken bone strength

How We Diagnose It

Stress fractures don’t always appear on an early X-ray, so we combine:

A detailed history of your symptoms and activities
Hands-on examination to pinpoint the painful area
Imaging when needed to confirm the diagnosis

This helps us determine the best and safest treatment approach.

Treatment That Supports Full Healing

Your plan will be tailored to the fracture’s severity, location, and your activity goals.

Conservative Treatment

Most stress fractures heal without surgery. We may recommend:

Temporary activity modification
A walking boot, protective shoe, or short period of immobilization
Ice and anti-inflammatory strategies for swelling
A guided return-to-activity plan to prevent reinjury

When Surgery Is Considered

If the fracture is in a high-risk area or isn’t healing as expected, a simple surgical procedure may be recommended to support the bone and ensure long-term stability.

Recovery & Prevention

As you heal, we’ll monitor your progress and help you:

Rebuild strength and mobility
Transition safely back into activity
Identify training or footwear changes that reduce future risk

Move Forward With Confidence

The sooner a stress fracture is diagnosed, the easier it is to treat and the faster you get back to moving comfortably again.

Don’t push through the pain.
Call (479) 935-3378 to schedule your visit today.
Your feet deserve expert care — and your active life depends on it.