Stress Fracture
Treatments

Treatment depends on the location of the stress fracture. Most stress fractures will heal if you reduce your level of activity and wear protective footwear for 2 to 4 weeks. Your doctor may recommend that you wear a stiff-soled shoe, a wooden-soled sandal, or a removable short-leg fracture brace shoe. Athletes should switch to activities that place less stress on the foot and leg. Swimming and bicycle riding are good alternative activities.

Stress fractures in the fifth metatarsal bone (on the outer side of the foot) or in the navicular or talus bones (the bone that forms the lower part of the ankle joint) take longer to heal, perhaps as long as 6 to 8 weeks. Your doctor may apply a cast to your foot or recommend that you use crutches until the bone heals. In some patients, surgery may be needed to ensure proper healing.