It can be difficult to properly diagnose a stress fracture without an X-ray. So if you suspect that you have a stress fracture, or have any other type of pain when walking, you should see a doctor.

The "American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons" says that some of the symptoms of a stress fracture in the foot are the following:

Pain

The pain usually starts off mildly and gradually gets worse. It usually intensifies during day-to-day activities. However, the pain will go when you rest your foot. As time goes on the periods of pain will last longer and be more intense until it is difficult to carry out normal, daily activities.

Swelling

There could be swelling around the area of the fracture. Again, this will get worse when using the foot, and will decrease when resting.

Tenderness

The area of the fracture will most likely be very tender when you touch it or when pressure is applied to it.

Bruising

There could be bruising, but not always.

If you have a stress fracture, what should you do to treat it and ease the pain?