Health Tip: Reducing Your Risk of Stress Fractures

(HealthDay News) -- Stress fractures often occur as a result of overuse, and they frequently affect the feet.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons suggests these precautions to help reduce the risk of stress fractures:

• Eat a healthy diet rich in vitamin D and calcium.
• Always wear appropriate athletic equipment, such as supportive running shoes.
• Alternate activities to ease strain on the bones, such as switching between swimming and cycling.
• Start slow when it comes to new activities, gradually increasing intensity and duration.
• Practice strength training for strong muscles and bones.
• Rest any time you have swelling or feel pain.