Your broken foot may still hurt after 6 months because of problems with bone healing.
Potential Causes of Persistent Pain After a Foot Fracture
A fracture that continues to cause pain months after the initial injury often indicates a problem with bone healing. Your doctor may confirm this diagnosis with X-rays or other imaging tests that show the bone isn't healing properly. This can be due to several reasons:
- Nonunion: This occurs when the broken bone fails to heal completely.
- Malunion: This happens when the bone heals in an incorrect position.
- Infection: An infection in the bone (osteomyelitis) can hinder healing and cause pain.
- Nerve Damage: The injury might have damaged nerves in your foot, leading to chronic pain.
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): This is a chronic pain condition that can develop after an injury.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If you're experiencing persistent pain after a foot fracture, it's crucial to consult with your doctor. They may perform the following:
- Physical Examination: Assessing your foot's range of motion, stability, and pain points.
- Imaging Tests: X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans to evaluate bone healing and identify any complications.
Treatment options vary depending on the cause of the pain but may include:
- Further Immobilization: Wearing a cast or boot for an extended period.
- Surgery: To correct nonunion, malunion, or address other complications.
- Pain Management: Medications, physical therapy, or other therapies to manage pain.
