Warning Signs of a Stress Fracture

Published February 18, 2026

Warning Signs of a Stress Fracture

By: The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics

When Persistent Pain Is More Than Just Soreness

If you’re experiencing lingering foot, ankle, or shin pain that worsens with activity, it may not be “just a strain.” It could be a stress fracture — a small crack in the bone caused by repetitive force or overuse.

At CAO, our foot and ankle specialists and sports medicine experts frequently diagnose stress fractures in runners, athletes, and active adults who push through pain.

Here’s what you need to know.

What Is a Stress Fracture?

A stress fracture is a tiny crack in the bone that develops over time due to repetitive impact. Unlike an acute fracture caused by a fall or trauma, stress fractures build gradually.

They’re most common in:

  • The metatarsals (foot bones)
  • The heel
  • The ankle
  • The shin (tibia)

Active individuals and “weekend warriors” are especially at risk, which is why early evaluation by a CAO sports medicine specialist is important.

 Warning Signs of a Stress Fracture

  1. Pain That Worsens with Activity

Pain typically:

  • Starts during exercise
  • Improves with rest
  • Returns when activity resumes

If your pain keeps coming back despite rest, it’s time to seek a professional evaluation through our sports injury treatment services.

 

  1. Localized Tenderness

Stress fracture pain is usually very specific. Pressing on one small area may reproduce sharp discomfort.

This is especially common in the foot and ankle, where our foot and ankle specialists often see overuse injuries.

 

  1. Swelling Without a Major Injury

Mild swelling may develop even if you don’t recall a specific injury event. That’s because stress fractures are caused by repetitive strain, not sudden trauma.

If swelling persists, consider visiting our orthopaedic urgent care for same-day evaluation to prevent further damage.

 

  1. Pain That Progresses Over Time

At first, discomfort may feel mild. But without treatment, pain can:

  • Occur earlier during activity
  • Last longer
  • Eventually persist even at rest

Early diagnosis helps prevent a small crack from becoming a complete fracture.

 

How Stress Fractures Are Diagnosed

Stress fractures don’t always appear on early X-rays. That’s why your provider may recommend advanced diagnostic imaging services, such as MRI, to confirm the diagnosis.

A thorough clinical exam combined with imaging ensures accurate treatment planning.

 

Who Is at Higher Risk?

You may be more likely to develop a stress fracture if you:

  • Recently increased workout intensity
  • Changed footwear
  • Run on hard surfaces
  • Have low bone density
  • Have nutritional deficiencies

If you’re concerned about bone health, a bone health evaluation or osteoporosis screening can help identify underlying risk factors.

 

Treatment and Recovery

Most stress fractures heal with:

Our goal is not only to heal the fracture but to address the underlying cause to prevent recurrence.

 

When to See an Orthopaedic Specialist

If you have persistent pain lasting more than a few days — especially pain that worsens with activity — don’t ignore it.

Schedule an appointment with our sports medicine team, consult a foot and ankle specialist, or call VantaStat for prompt evaluation.

Early treatment means faster recovery and a safer return to the activities you love.