Broken Bones Specialist

What are broken bones?

Broken bones occur when trauma, overuse, or disease weakens your bones resulting in a fracture. Fractures range in severity. Some are tiny cracks that heal on their own with rest; others cause severe breaks that can pierce your skin.

Each of your feet has 26 bones. The bones in your feet and ankles are incredibly tough, but they aren’t invincible. Strenuous exercise, automobile accidents, and stepping down awkwardly can all result in breakage, and in severe cases, deformity.

What are the symptoms of broken bones?

Common symptoms of broken bones include:

• Tenderness
• Bruising
• Swelling
• Immediate, throbbing pain
• Deformity
• Difficulty walking
  
  

In addition, pain caused by broken bones typically gets worse during physical activity and improves with rest.

Who is at risk of broken bones?

People of all ages experience broken feet and ankles, but several factors may increase your risk. This is especially true if you play high-impact sports like basketball, football, or soccer, or you work a physically demanding job where you might fall or drop something on your foot. 

Underlying medical conditions can also play a role. For example, osteoporosis causes decreased bone density. As the disease progresses, you’re more likely to experience a fracture.

How can I prevent broken bones?

If you want to lower your risk of broken bones, the team at Chicagoland Foot and Ankle recommends wearing comfortable shoes that fit properly, decluttering your home, eating a healthy, balanced diet, and exercising regularly. 

Lifestyle changes like these can strengthen your bones and significantly lower your risk of an accident or injury.

How are broken bones diagnosed?

The team at Chicagoland Foot and Ankle diagnoses broken bones with a physical examination of your lower extremities. They also ask about your symptoms and the events leading up to your injury. 

Your provider carefully presses on your feet and ankles, feeling for areas of swelling or tenderness. They then move your feet in different directions to check your range of motion. They might also ask you to walk around the exam room to observe your gait.

If your provider suspects a fracture, they order diagnostic imaging like X-rays, a bone scan, MRI, or a CT scan to confirm the diagnosis. These tools provide detailed images of the bones and supportive structures in your feet and ankles.

How are broken bones treated?

Treatment of broken bones depends on the severity and location of your fracture. Mild breaks, like stress fractures, typically respond to casts or bracing, over-the-counter pain medication, and physical therapy. 

More severe fractures may require surgical intervention. The team at Chicagoland Foot and Ankle might need to use plates, pins, or screws to hold your bones in place and encourage healing. 

To receive safe, effective care for broken bones, schedule an appointment at Chicagoland Foot and Ankle. Book a consultation online, or call the nearest office to speak with a friendly staff member today.