UPDATE: New Foot Problems for Eli Manning

Recently we did a blog entry on Giants QB Eli Manning and the plantar fasciitis he was experiencing in his right foot. Now, in trying to compensate for it, Manning had caused another problem in that foot. A recent MRI on Manning’s foot revealed the stress reaction in the right cuboid bone. If left alone, this could progress to a stress fracture- which would put Manning out for the rest of the season. Giants trainers have Manning keep off the foot as much as possible, using supportive shoes, and using a bone stimulator on the affected area.

Stress fractures are overuse injuries.They are most common in the lower legs and feet of athletes, although almost anyone can get a stress fracture.

When muscles become fatigued,they are unable to absorb shock as well. Eventually the muscles transfer the stress to the underlying bones, causing small cracks to form in the bone.

Symptoms include pain, swelling, tenderness to touch at the site of the fracture. Diagnosis can be difficult, since X-rays may be called “negative” until evidence of bone healing begins three to six weeks after symptoms begin.

A “pre-stress fracture” exists when the covering around the bone, called the periostium, becomes inflamed. If treated at this stage, actual fracture may be avoided. Treatment using consists of rest, elevation, immobilization, and over-the-counter pain medications.

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