Metatarsal stress fracture

[Francois]

Hello,
I have had pain in the top of my foot since May. what is the likelyhood of this being a stress fracture? Pain comes and goes every few weeks, sometimes i can run for weeks with a little pain, sometimes i have to have a week off. Has anyone else have these on and off symptoms? If i press on the metatarsals there is a little bit of pain on the third near the toe but not so much that i cant withstand it. My foot doesnt hurt in the morning, only when i start running. I cannot run barefoot without pain. There is less pain with shoes and on grass.

Any help would be appreciated.

[Heidi]

Hi
There may be a stress fracture. You should take more than 1 week off at a time. Ideally 3-4 weeks without running and with reduced walking, ensuring the feet are supported at all times. Then try a very gradual return to running.