Justyn Ross is an American football wide receiver for the Kansas City Chiefs. Ross was not selected during the 2022 NFL Draft. However, he signed with the Kansas City Chiefs as an undrafted free agent. On July 25, 2022, Ross was placed on the injured reserve list. The former freshman All-American at Clemson was seen in a boot and using a walking scooter at the beginning of this month for the injury on his left foot. Ross injured his foot last November while playing for Clemson He played through a stress fracture of his left foot during his final season as a Tiger in 2021. He underwent an initial surgery and then needed another revisional surgery.
A stress fracture is a small break in a bone, or severe bruising within a bone. Stress fractures are most often caused by overuse and repetitive activity. They are common in runners and athletes who participate in high impact sports. Stress fractures can also occur when people change their activities, such as trying a new exercise, increasing the intensity of workouts suddenly, or changing workout surfaces. Additionally, if osteoporosis or other disease has weakened the bones, just doing everyday activities may result in a stress fracture.
Pain from stress fractures usually develops gradually and is worse during weight-bearing activities. You also typically experience point tenderness at the site of the fracture. Refraining from high impact activities is key to recovering from a stress fracture in the foot or ankle. Returning to activity too quickly can not only delay the healing process but also increase the risk for a complete fracture. Diagnosing stress fractures are usually done by a thorough history and physical exam and performing x-rays. An MRI is sometimes needed to confirm diagnosis.
It typically takes 6 to 8 weeks for a stress fracture to heal. Treatment includes RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) protocol, anti-inflammatory medication, keeping weight off your foot until the pain subsides. Wearing protective footwear or casting to reduce stress on your foot and leg is imperative.
Some stress fractures require surgery to heal properly. In most cases, this involves supporting the bones by stabilizing the bones with internal fixation. Pins, screws, and/or plates are most often used to the bones of the foot and ankle together during the healing process. Surgery may also be needed if a stress fracture breaks completely and displaces.
Prevent stress fractures from eating a healthy diet rich in calcium and Vitamin D. Always wear a rigid supportive shoe while exercising. When starting a new activity, make sure to gradually increase your intensity. If you have pain or swelling, stop your activity and rest for a few days.
