How do I know if my foot is broken or just sprained?

Fractures typically produce pinpoint bone tenderness, a felt or heard crack at time of injury, rapid swelling and bruising within hours, and inability to bear weight. Sprains produce more diffuse soft-tissue tenderness developing over 12–24 hours. If you cannot bear weight, have pinpoint bone tenderness, or symptoms do not improve within 3–5 days, get imaging. Call Balance Foot & Ankle at (810) 206-1402.

What is a stress fracture and who gets them?

A stress fracture is a small crack from repetitive loading rather than a single traumatic event. The second metatarsal is most commonly affected. Risk factors include sudden increase in training volume (more than 10% per week), low bone density, nutritional deficiency, the female athlete triad, and high-arch biomechanics. Treatment is activity restriction for 6–8 weeks.

How long does a foot fracture take to heal?

Most metatarsal stress fractures heal in 6–8 weeks with activity restriction and protective footwear. Jones fractures take 3–4 months due to poor blood supply, or require surgical fixation in high-performance athletes. Calcaneal fractures require 3–6 months of recovery after surgical repair.

When should I see a podiatrist for a possible foot fracture?

See a podiatrist immediately if you cannot bear weight, felt or heard a snap, have rapid swelling and bruising, or visible deformity. For chronic aching that worsens with activity (possible stress fracture), see a podiatrist within a week. Balance Foot & Ankle offers same-day injury evaluations — call (810) 206-1402.

Cuneiform Fracture Treatment 2026 | Podiatrist

cuneiform-fracture-treatment - Balance Foot & Ankle Michigan

Cuneiform Fracture: Diagnosis + Recovery

Quick answer: Cuneiform Fracture requires specific treatment. Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM has experience treating midfoot fractures.

Watch: Ankle conditions & surgical options

Diagnosis

Clinical exam, X-rays, sometimes MRI or CT scan for occult fractures.

Treatment

Immobilization (boot or cast), 4-8 weeks non-weight-bearing depending on severity, gradual return to activity.

Schedule

Call (810) 206-1402.

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AAOS: Foot Fractures — Cuneiform & Midfoot

In-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle

If home treatment isn’t providing relief for your foot or ankle pain, our podiatry team at Balance Foot & Ankle can help with same-day evaluations and advanced in-office care.

Same-day appointments available. (810) 206-1402

Learn about our foot & ankle treatment → | Book online →