Stress fractures occur when the repetitive impact on the foot exceeds the bone’s ability to repair itself, leading to tiny cracks that worsen over time.

Common Risk Factors:

• Overuse from running, jumping, or prolonged standing
• Poor footwear that lacks cushioning or support
• Sudden increase in activity level or training intensity
• Flat feet or high arches, altering how weight is distributed
• Osteoporosis or weakened bones
• Excess body weight
• Marching or military drills (historically called “March Fractures”)

• Gradual onset of pain in the ball of the foot or midfoot
• Localized tenderness over a specific bone
• Pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest
• Mild swelling or bruising
• Difficulty bearing weight or walking long distances

Because these injuries are often subtle, many patients don’t recall a specific moment of injury, making diagnosis based on symptoms and imaging critical.

Our experienced podiatrists will evaluate your symptoms and perform:

• Physical examination of the affected area
• Digital X-rays – although stress fractures may not show up immediately
• MRI or bone scan – used in complex cases or when early imaging is inconclusive

Early diagnosis is key to avoiding worsening of the fracture, delayed healing, or the development of chronic foot pain.

The vast majority of metatarsal stress fractures heal without surgery when properly treated early.

Conservative Treatments:

• Activity modification – stop high-impact activities
• Immobilization in a walking boot or stiff-soled shoe
• Ice therapy and anti-inflammatory medications
• Custom orthotics to correct foot mechanics and offload pressure
• Calcium and Vitamin D support (if bone health is a concern)

Most stress fractures heal within 6 to 8 weeks, with a gradual return to activity under supervision.

For patients with delayed healing or higher demands (e.g., athletes, professionals), we may offer:

• Bone stimulation therapy (low-intensity pulsed ultrasound)
• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections to accelerate bone healing
• Amniotic or fetal tissue allografts for regenerative support
• Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) to promote bone remodeling
• Biomechanical evaluation to prevent recurrence

Surgery is rarely required but may be necessary for:

• Fractures that do not heal with conservative care
• Displaced or high-risk fractures
• Patients with multiple or recurrent stress fractures

Surgical options may involve internal fixation using screws or pins to stabilize the bone and speed healing.

If you’re experiencing persistent forefoot pain, swelling, or difficulty with daily activities, don’t ignore it. Metatarsal stress fractures can worsen without proper treatment.

Contact SoCal Foot and Ankle Doctors today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation at our Santa Monica or Cedars-Sinai location. We’ll help you heal safely and return to the activities you love.