Elite Foot & Ankle

Stress Fractures in Runners

stress fracture, foot, xray, denver, lone tree, podiatrist, foot surgeon. ankle surgeryCommon Runners’ Injury: Stress Fractures of the Foot

Repetitive impact on feet can increase risk of damage

  Stress fractures of the foot are becoming more common in runners, especially first-time marathoners, according to Denver / Lone Tree, CO foot and ankle surgeon Chad Simmons DPM, FACFAS.

 The growing popularity of marathons among Denver’s beginning runners has contributed to the increase in repetitive stress injuries, including stress fractures of the foot, seen by Dr. Simmons, a member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Often, first-time marathoners enter a race with little or improper long-distance training. The lack of experience coupled with the repetitive impact placed on the feet during the run can produce enough stress to cause hairline breaks in the bones of the foot.



“Stress fractures can occur anywhere in the foot and can eventually lead to a complete break of the bone if left untreated,” Dr. Simmons explained.  “Early diagnosis and treatment are important to ensure proper healing.”

If a break is suspected, Dr. Simmons advises runners to immediately follow the RICE protocol—Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation. If pain and swelling last longer than a few days, an appointment for an x-ray and diagnosis is in order.




If you suspect you have a foot injury or fracture, call Dr. Chad Simmons’ office at (720)-638-6081 for an evaluation.