The foot contains 26 bones, and any of these can be injured through direct trauma, falls, repetitive overload, or abnormal biomechanics. Foot fractures can range from minor stress injuries to complex fractures involving multiple bones and joints.
Some fractures are obvious, particularly when there is displacement or visible deformity. However, others can be subtle and difficult to detect without careful assessment and appropriate imaging.
Common types of foot fractures include:
- Avulsion fractures – where a small fragment of bone is pulled off by a tendon or ligament (e.g. anterior process of the calcaneum, fibular tip)
- Stress fractures – small cracks caused by repetitive loading or overuse
- Complete fractures – through the main body of the bone
- Intra-articular fractures – involving the joint surface
- Extra-articular fractures – not involving the joint
- Lisfranc injuries – injury to the midfoot joints and ligaments, which may include fractures and/or joint disruption
The healing potential varies between bones. For example:
- The calcaneum (heel bone) generally heals well
- The talus can be slower to heal and carries a higher risk of complications
- Some fractures are stable, while others require strict protection or surgical fixation
