If you have severe leg pain that occurs when you are done working or working out, or even just from walking around the block, you could have a stress fracture. If the pain is the worst while you aren't in motion, and the area aches and feels weak, it's time to see a doctor.
A stress fracture is a small crack in the bone that can occur from overuse and constant pressure on a specific bone, and you want to get it treated before you have a large fracture, or before it turns into a chronic condition. Here is what you should expect, and what treatment options you have.
X-Ray and Diagnosis
The physician will want to see an x-ray of your leg, so they can see if you have any stress fractures causing the pain. They will also manually feel the area and check for misalignment. Once the condition is diagnosed, the physician is going to recommend treatment, and they may want you to see an orthopedic professional.
Immobilization
The physician may want you to put the leg in a cast, so you aren't tempted to use it. They also may want you to wear crutches. It's important to use the leg as little as possible until the fracture can heal, or you will only make the problem worse.
Pain Treatment
Since you may have to go to work and do things that require walking, you may want to manage the pain. If you are tired of taking over the counter medications, you should ask your physician about the use of Botox. Injecting Botox into the area is a great way to find pain relief. You also should ice and elevate the area.
Prevention
There are exercises and stretches you can do to help prevent stress fractures and your physician may suggest that you get different shoes. You also may want to try doing low impact exercises as you start your workout routine after the fractures heal.
You don't want to ignore chronic pain in your body that is making it difficult for you to walk and perform daily tasks. Get to a physician right away so you can see if the pain that you have is from a stress fracture or another type of orthopedic complication, and see if they can help you with the pain. The sooner you go, the less damage you will continue to do to your leg. (for more information on leg pain, go to http://veinvarices.com)
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