How can you care for yourself when you have a lower leg stress fracture?
- Rest your leg as much as you can for as long as your doctor advises. Follow your doctor's instructions for using crutches, a brace, or a splint.
- Ask your doctor before you change your activity level or go back to your usual exercise. Too much activity or weight on the leg with the fracture can cause it to get worse.
- Put ice or a cold pack on your leg for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Put a thin cloth between the ice and your skin.
- Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
- If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
- If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
- Do exercises or physical therapy as directed by your doctor.
©2011-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated
The content above contains general health information provided by Healthwise, Incorporated, and reviewed by its medical experts. This content should not replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Not all treatments or services described are offered as services by us. For recommended treatments, please consult your healthcare provider.