While professional athletes and practitioners of dance may be more susceptible to experiencing a foot or ankle fracture, just engaging in a regular exercise program or vigorous work puts considerable stress on the feet. You can help avoid foot and ankle injuries and fractures by wearing properly fitted shoes with custom orthotic devices.

The type of break you have will depend upon the size and direction of force applied during the incident.

The 5 types of bone fractures that can affect your feet and ankles include the following:

  • Compound break—The primary sign of a compound fracture (which is probably the most severe type) is a broken, protruding bone. Surgical repair and setting the bones with a cast are most likely necessary.
  • Stabilized break—This is one of the most easily treated types of fractures since the separation of the bone is small and the two parts are more easily rejoined.
  • Comminuted fracture—When the bone shatters into many pieces a complex surgical reconstruction is required.
  • Oblique fracture—This break consists of a diagonal separation of the bones.
  • Stress or hairline fracture—Repeated stress of physical activity on the feet can cause tiny cracks to occur in the bones. Dancers frequently suffer hairline fractures in their metatarsal bones.
  • If you have suffered a fracture to your foot or ankle see your trusted foot doctor for the proper diagnosis and treatment. At Atlantic Foot and Ankle Specialists, Dr. Melissa Robitaille and Dr. Todd Newsom treat virtually all types of foot and ankle disorders including bunions, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, and heel pain. Equipped with leading-edge technologies such as Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) and laser surgery for toenail fungus, we provide specialized, compassionate service for patients in the Pooler, Georgia area of Chatham County. For any pain or discomfort you are experiencing with your feet and ankles, contact us today at (912) 988-3323.

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