Spring is a busy time for moms. Especially now, when outdoor sports are a high priority. While many excursions outside go as planned, what happens when they do not? What happens when one of mom’s children or friends is faced with stress fracture ankle injury? Or, what happens when mom goes down with an ankle fracture of her own?
Whether you or one of your children happens to succumb to an ankle injury this spring, EmergeOrtho—Triangle Region has moms, kids, and the entire family (and friends) covered. Our Sports Medicine team is here to ensure a safe and fun spring season for all, providing tips to prevent and treat a stress fracture to the ankle.
What Causes a Stress Fracture Ankle Injury?
Did you know that according to statistics, ankle fractures are some of the most common injuries seen by orthopedic specialists in the United States? It is estimated that upwards of a quarter of a million ankle fractures happen each year in the U.S.
Since a stress fracture refers to a small crack in the bone, repetitive activity and stress often increase the risk of this type of injury happening. For this reason, those who participate in running, soccer, and basketball are especially susceptible to stress fractures to the ankle.
Offering the Best in Subspecialty Ankle Stress Fracture Treatment
From sprains, strains, and ankle stress fracture solutions to ACL tear treatment and other common springtime sports-related injuries, board-certified EmergeOrtho Sports Medicine Physicians work together to provide a personalized orthopedic care plan.
It is important to understand that although an ankle stress fracture often heals successfully within six to eight weeks, the sooner you seek treatment, the better the outcome.
Most stress fractures can be treated with conservative treatment methods, which include:
- Pain Medications. Your doctor will likely prescribe non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Activity Modification. Avoiding certain weight-bearing activities for a period of time may be suggested to ensure the injury can heal properly.
- Immobilization. A cast, brace, or another type of assistive device can prevent further stress from impacting the stress fracture while it continues to recover.
Although not as common, surgical intervention may be required to remedy severe stress fractures. Surgical procedures are often recommended in the case that damaged bone or tissue needs to be removed.
More Than an Ounce of Prevention!
In addition to offering innovative treatment approaches to help our patients Emerge Stronger. Healthier. Better. our EmergeOrtho—Triangle Region Sports Medicine Physicians are often called upon for their preventative-injury knowledge base.
To help avoid stress fractures and other common ankle injuries this spring, practice the following stress-fracture prevention tips:
- Use the Right Stuff!
Using the appropriate equipment and correct sized sporting-protection gear can help ensure the ankle is properly supported and cushioned. For example, this means wearing ankle braces for spring soccer (even if only playing with a sibling or two) and padded, comfortable shoes for running. - Approach New Activities with Caution
With what feels like an abundant source of time to explore new outdoor activities, our EmergeOrtho—Triangle Region Sports Medicine doctors recommend easing into new activities. Proceeding full-steam ahead in a new sport or abruptly increasing your endurance or distance in an activity you are used to performing, can increase the risk of injury. - Consider Cross-Training
To reduce overstressing the ankle, varying your spring-sporting activities will help decrease the repetitive impact on a single area of the ankle. And, incorporate strength-training as a way to reinforce ankle stability. - Commit to Not Overcommitting
If you experience pain, swelling, bruising, or other symptoms of a stress fracture, do not force yourself to continue to participate in sports. Instead, allow yourself the necessary time to heal. This will help eliminate the opportunity for further (and worse) injury.
To learn more, self-schedule an appointment now. Or, call us any time at (919) 220-5255.
