A fractured foot and a sprained foot can be difficult to tell apart as both conditions share several symptoms. A broken foot is typically more painful than a sprained foot, and the pain tends to last longer. Bruising, swelling, and tenderness are associated with both fractures and sprains, but are usually more severe in fractures. At the time of injury, you may hear a crack if there is a fracture, but a popping sound may occur if there is a sprain. Both fractures and sprains are likely to cause difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected foot. If you have injured your foot, a podiatrist can use a combination of physical examination and imaging studies like X-rays, to determine the type of injury you have endured and which course of treatment is best for you.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Lee R. Stein from Lake Shore Foot & Ankle, PC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Chicago, Highland Park, and Uptown, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.