Foot Fracture Treatment in Pembroke Pines & Plantation
Nearly one-quarter of the bones in your body are in your feet, so foot fractures are common. Whether caused by a fall, a dropped object, or repetitive stress during exercise, a broken bone in the foot needs proper diagnosis and treatment to heal correctly. At Daniel Bell, DPM - Foot & Ankle Institute, Daniel Bell, DPM treats all types of foot fractures and helps you return to your normal activities safely.
Types of Foot Fractures
Stress Fractures
Stress fractures are tiny cracks on the surface of the bone that develop from repetitive force rather than a single injury. They most often occur in the metatarsal bones in the middle of the foot and are common in runners, athletes, and people who suddenly increase activity. Low bone density and flat feet or high arches can increase the risk.
Traumatic (General) Fractures
General bone fractures extend through the bone and are usually caused by trauma such as a fall, an auto accident, a sports collision, or a heavy object landing on the foot. These may involve the toes, metatarsals, heel bone, or ankle.
Symptoms of a Broken Foot
- Pain that worsens with standing or walking
- Swelling and bruising
- Tenderness at a specific spot on the bone
- Difficulty bearing weight
- Visible deformity in more severe fractures
Because fractures and sprains can look similar, imaging is often needed to confirm the diagnosis. It is important to seek care as soon as possible if you suspect a fracture so treatment can begin right away.
Foot Fracture Treatment
Many foot fractures heal well without surgery. Depending on the location and severity, treatment may include:
- Rest and limiting weight-bearing activity
- A stiff-soled shoe, walking boot, or cast
- Crutches for more serious injuries
- Buddy taping for some toe fractures
- Pain and swelling management
- A gradual return to activity guided by follow-up exams and imaging
Displaced, unstable, or complex fractures may require foot and ankle surgery to realign and stabilize the bones.
Recovery and Prevention
After healing, custom orthotics and supportive footwear can reduce stress on the bones and help prevent future stress fractures. Athletes benefit from our sports medicine guidance on training load, and older adults can reduce fall risk through geriatric foot care. We also treat foot injuries from auto accidents and workplace incidents. Explore related foot pain and ankle pain pages or all conditions we treat.
Foot Fracture FAQs
How do I know if my foot is broken?
Signs include pain with walking, swelling, bruising, and tenderness at one spot on the bone. X-rays are usually needed to confirm a fracture.
Can I walk on a broken foot?
Some minor fractures allow limited walking in a protective shoe or boot, but you should avoid walking on a suspected fracture until it is evaluated.
How long does a foot fracture take to heal?
Most foot fractures heal in about six to eight weeks, though some take longer depending on the bone and severity.
What is a stress fracture?
A stress fracture is a small crack in the bone caused by repetitive force, often from running or a sudden increase in activity.
Do broken toes need treatment?
Yes. Many broken toes are treated with buddy taping and a stiff shoe, but displaced fractures may need to be realigned.
When does a foot fracture need surgery?
Surgery may be needed when bones are displaced, unstable, or involve a joint, or when a fracture does not heal properly.
Do you treat fractures from auto accidents or work injuries?
Yes. We treat foot and ankle fractures from auto accidents and workplace incidents and offer dedicated intake packets for these cases.
Get Prompt Care for a Foot Fracture
Early treatment helps your foot heal correctly. Call (954) 942-5005 - Pembroke Pines Office or (954) 942-5005 - Plantation Office or request an appointment online with Dr. Bell.