Stress fractures are small but serious cracks in the bone caused by repetitive force and overuse — and they can stop you in your tracks. Whether you’re a runner logging extra miles, a professional spending long hours on your feet, or someone who recently ramped up activity, a stress fracture can escalate quickly if ignored. At Momentum Foot & Ankle, we provide prompt diagnosis and personalized care designed to get you back to the activities you love — safely and confidently.
Dr. Christopher Zimmer is a board-eligible, fellowship-trained foot and ankle surgeon with dedicated expertise in foot and ankle trauma. He completed his Trauma & Reconstruction Fellowship at Westside Regional Medical Center in Plantation, FL — where he managed complex fractures including calcaneal fractures, pilon fractures, and midfoot injuries. His residency at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center further deepened his experience in fracture evaluation and management across a high-volume patient population.
Dr. Zimmer’s approach is straightforward: understand your diagnosis, explore every appropriate option, and make a decision you feel confident about. Surgery is only recommended when it’s truly the right choice.
What Are Stress Fractures?
A stress fracture is a hairline crack in a bone caused by repetitive mechanical stress rather than a single traumatic event. In the foot and ankle, they most commonly affect the metatarsals, heel bone (calcaneus), and navicular. They’re prevalent among athletes, military personnel, dancers, and active individuals — but anyone who increases activity too quickly is at risk.
Common Causes
- Sudden increase in training intensity or duration
- High-impact activities such as running, basketball, or gymnastics
- Worn-out or improper footwear
- Osteoporosis or low bone density
- Nutritional deficiencies (vitamin D or calcium)
- Returning to activity too soon after a previous injury
Signs & Symptoms
Stress fractures develop gradually, which means symptoms are easy to overlook at first. Common warning signs include:
- Localized pain that worsens with activity and eases with rest
- Tenderness or swelling over a specific area of the foot
- Aching or bruising that doesn’t resolve with rest
- Pain that starts earlier and earlier during activity over time
If you notice these symptoms, don’t wait. Untreated stress fractures can progress to a complete break.
Diagnosis
Dr. Zimmer will conduct a thorough physical examination and review your activity history. Depending on your presentation, imaging may include:
- X-rays — often the first step, though early stress fractures may not appear
- MRI — the most sensitive tool for early and accurate detection
- CT scan — used for complex or high-risk fractures
Treatment Options
Most stress fractures respond well to conservative treatment. Your plan may include:
- Rest and targeted activity modification
- Protective footwear, walking boots, or crutches
- Immobilization or casting when appropriate
- Pain management with anti-inflammatory medications
- A structured, gradual return-to-activity program
For higher-risk fractures — such as those in the navicular or fifth metatarsal — surgical fixation may be recommended to ensure full healing and reduce the risk of re-fracture. Dr. Zimmer will walk you through every option before any decision is made.
Prevention & Long-Term Recovery
Healing is only part of the process. Dr. Zimmer will help you address the root causes of your stress fracture and build a plan to prevent future injuries — including footwear guidance, training modifications, and nutritional recommendations when appropriate.
Why Choose Momentum Foot & Ankle?
Patients throughout Palm Beach County choose Momentum Foot & Ankle because they want a surgeon who listens — and who is as committed to avoiding unnecessary procedures as he is to delivering exceptional results.
- Fellowship-trained surgeon with advanced trauma and fracture expertise
- Conservative treatment prioritized — surgery only when truly needed
- Personalized treatment plans tailored to your lifestyle and goals
- One-on-one care from diagnosis through full recovery
- Accepting most major insurance plans
Schedule Your Evaluation Today
Foot pain shouldn’t be something you push through. If you suspect a stress fracture or are experiencing persistent foot or ankle pain, contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Zimmer. Contact us at (561) 369-4455 — we’re here to help you heal and get back to doing what you love.
