Sean Doolittle of the Washington Nationals noticed a difference in the way he landed off the mound after he finished his pitches. To his surprise, he felt discomfort in his toe and decided to have an MRI to discover the cause. The initial MRI revealed no structural damage, however a second MRI was able to reveal a stress reaction. Doolittle believes the injury stemmed from the burden that is placed on his foot from his pitch delivery. He is currently avoiding all baseball activity, which isn’t a good sign for the Nationals. Kelvin Herrera is expected to fill in as temporary closer while Doolittle is on the disabled list.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.