Foot Fractures

Whether it happens from a misstep, a sports injury, or dropping something heavy on it, a foot fracture can sideline you fast. With 26 bones in each foot, fractures are common, and getting the right care early makes all the difference. Gaston Liu, DPM, at Gaston Mike Liu LLC in Commack, New York, provides expert evaluation and treatment to get you back on your feet safely. Call the office or book an appointment online today.

What is a foot fracture?

A foot fracture is a break in one or more of the bones of your foot. Fractures range from hairline cracks to complete breaks or multiple breaks and can affect the seven tarsals (rear foot bones), five metatarsals (the long mid-foot bones), or the 14 small bones in your toes (called phalanges).

Some fractures result from a sudden impact or injury, while stress fractures develop gradually from repetitive activity, which is common among runners, athletes, and people on their feet all day. If your foot is painful, swollen, or bruised after an injury, or if you have ongoing pain that won’t resolve, a fracture could be the cause. See Dr. Liu for a comprehensive evaluation.

What are the symptoms of a foot fracture?

Foot fractures commonly cause the following telltale symptoms in your foot or toes:

• Throbbing pain
• Tenderness or soreness
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Difficulty bearing weight
• Trouble walking
• Pain that worsens with activity
• Pain that gets better with rest
• Bone sticking through your skin
• Deformity of your foot

Don’t ignore persistent foot pain. If left untreated, a fracture can heal improperly, leading to more significant problems, such as chronic pain, arthritis, or foot instability.

How is a foot fracture diagnosed?

Dr. Liu diagnoses a foot fracture by reviewing your symptoms, examining your foot, learning about your medical history, and asking pinpointed questions about how the injury occurred. He evaluates your foot for tenderness, swelling, and range of motion, then typically orders X-rays to confirm the fracture and assess its severity. In some cases, an MRI or CT scan may be needed to detect stress fractures or evaluate more complex injuries.

How is a foot fracture treated?

Dr. Liu and the team personalize your treatment plan, which may include:

• Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE)
• Protective footwear, a walking boot, or a cast
• Custom orthotics for added support during healing
• Activity modifications
• Physical therapy or rehabilitation
• Surgery (for severe fractures)

Most fractures heal well with proper care and rest. Schedule a foot fracture evaluation at Gaston Mike Liu LLC by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.