Stress Fracture

[futureSoldier]

Sirs,

The hip problem that I asked about earlier cleared up after a trainer at the university I go to showed me a new stretch. However, I have a new problem. I did something stupid... instead of immediatly replacing the insoles in my boots, I rucked for a few weeks thinking that if I kept the distance and weight low I would be ok while I looked around at different insoles (I now have new insoles). That didn't happen. Two weeks ago, after my fourth ruck (4 miles, 45lbs) the ball of my left foot and the little toes began to hurt to the point that it hurt to walk on if the shoes did not have good cushoning. It is better now unless I try to run or walk around barefoot-then it is a pretty constant-almost sharp, pain. It feels like a bruise except that I have never had a bruise last this long. The reason why I am asking you guys is this: I am in a window of no insurance (I let it run out rather than find new insurance to cover from nov till I go to basic in Jan). Are there any ways that I can test to see if this is a stress fracture without going and paying for xrays or a doctors appointment?

Thank you for your time, I really appricate the advice found here,

Joe

[Warrior-Mentor]

Until the 18Ds chime in, here's my .02...

Even if you have a stress fracture, how would they/you treat it? Assuming it's not out of position (an actual break),
basic treatment is RICE:

Rest. Stay off it as much as possible. No impact cardio (no rucking, running).

Ice. Reduces inflamation. Other anti-inflamatories (Aleve, Motrin, etc) may assist.

Compression. Reduce inflamation by squeezing, massaging or other method (Ace Bandage, etc)

Elevation. Reduce inflamaion by elevating your fot while sleeping, sitting & resting.

It could be Plantar Fascitis...which requires stretching and...you guessed it...more RICE.
The stretching for this focuses on your calves and your foot itself.
A Strassburg Sock (about $30 at a running store) may also help.

Best,
JM

[Kyobanim]

They gave me a wooden shoe at AIT when I had one. Had to wear it for 3 weeks.

[x SF med]

I think the Major deserves honorary 18D status. Excellent advice.

FS-
You are probably not going to get a diagnosis from the board, if it can't be examined in person it can't be properly diagnosed or treated. It could be a couple of things - a strain in one of the plantar muscles of the foot, plantar fasciitis, a stress fracture, a bone spur... without examination the Major's course of treatment will hold you over until you get to the doctor. Don't ever be cheap with your health, especially if it could get you disqualified from SF.

Your feet are your life in SF, get it checked - what's your priority, a few bucks, or your future as an SF soldier? Weigh your choices, then make a decision. You are an adult, the ball's in your court.