Broken Foot: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Care

A broken foot, also known as a foot fracture, can happen suddenly from trauma or gradually from repetitive stress. Whether you twisted your foot during sports, missed a step, or have lingering soreness from overuse, a fracture can disrupt daily life and worsen without proper care.

At Third Coast Foot & Ankle, we provide expert diagnosis and treatment for all types of foot fractures—so you can heal safely and get back on your feet with confidence.

What Is a Broken Foot?

Your foot contains 26 bones, and any one of them can break from an acute injury or overuse. Fractures can range from tiny stress fractures to more severe displaced fractures, where the bone moves out of position.

Foot fractures are classified into:

  • Stress fractures – small cracks in the bone caused by repetitive force or overuse

  • Stable fractures – broken bones that remain properly aligned

  • Displaced fractures – the ends of the broken bone no longer line up correctly

  • Open fractures – a break where bone pierces the skin (a medical emergency)

Common Causes of Foot Fractures

  • Falls or direct trauma (e.g., dropping something heavy on your foot)

  • Sports injuries, especially high-impact activities like running, soccer, or basketball

  • Twisting injuries or missteps on uneven surfaces

  • Overuse or repetitive motion, especially in athletes and active individuals

  • Osteoporosis or weakened bones, making fractures more likely from minor incidents

Signs and Symptoms of a Broken Foot

The symptoms of a foot fracture vary depending on the bone and severity of the break, but commonly include:

  • Sudden sharp pain after an injury

  • Swelling, bruising, or redness

  • Tenderness to the touch

  • Difficulty bearing weight or walking

  • Visible deformity in severe cases

  • Pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest (especially with stress fractures)

If you’re unsure whether your foot is broken or sprained, it’s important to get an evaluation. Fractures often mimic sprains in the early stages.

Why Prompt Treatment Is Important

Even small fractures can worsen if left untreated, leading to chronic pain, arthritis, or improper healing. Prompt diagnosis and stabilization help prevent long-term damage and allow the bone to heal in proper alignment.

How We Diagnose and Treat Foot Fractures

At Third Coast Foot & Ankle, we start with a physical exam and in-office digital imaging (X-rays) to identify the location and type of fracture.

Treatment options may include:

  • Immobilization – with a walking boot, cast, or brace to stabilize the bone

  • Activity modification and rest – to allow healing without reinjury

  • Crutches or knee scooters – to reduce pressure on the foot

  • MLS Laser Therapy – to reduce inflammation and promote tissue healing

  • Surgery – only for severe fractures or when bones need to be realigned with pins, plates, or screws

  • Rehabilitation and physical therapy – to restore strength, flexibility, and balance once healing is underway

When to See a Podiatrist

You should seek immediate care if:

  • You felt a pop or snap during injury

  • You have significant swelling or bruising

  • You can’t bear weight on the foot

  • There is deformity or exposed bone

  • Pain doesn’t improve after a few days of rest

  • You have repeated foot pain after activity, even without trauma

Early diagnosis means faster recovery and fewer long-term issues.

We’re Here to Help You Heal Right

If you suspect a broken foot or are experiencing persistent foot pain, don’t wait it out. At Third Coast Foot & Ankle, we’re here to provide expert care, fast answers, and a personalized plan to get you back to doing what you love—safely.

📞 Call us today at 262-821-1588 to schedule an evaluation.