How National Nutrition Month Highlights the Link Between Diet, Osteoporosis, and Unexplained Foot Pain
March is National Nutrition Month, highlighting the critical role nutrition plays in bone health and fracture prevention.
An unexplained foot fracture may be an early indicator of osteoporosis, a bone-thinning disease affecting more than 28 million Americans and responsible for approximately 1.5 million fractures annually. Often referred to as a “silent disease,” osteoporosis can progress without symptoms and remain undiagnosed until a fracture occurs.
Compromised bone density results in weakened, porous bone structure, increasing susceptibility to stress fractures in the feet. These fractures may develop during routine weight-bearing activities such as walking, without a specific traumatic event. Patients frequently present with persistent foot pain that is later confirmed as a fracture.
While osteoporosis is most commonly diagnosed in women over age 50, it also affects men and younger individuals. Early clinical findings may include pain with ambulation, localized swelling, and dorsal foot erythema. Delayed evaluation can prolong healing time and increase the risk of complications.
Adequate intake of calcium, vitamin D, protein, and essential micronutrients is fundamental to bone remodeling and fracture healing. Nutritional deficiencies, malabsorption, and restrictive diets can accelerate bone loss and further elevate fracture risk.
Foot and ankle surgeons play an important role in identifying early signs of osteoporosis through diagnostic imaging, including radiographs and bone densitometry, and coordinating appropriate medical and nutritional management. Supportive footwear and custom orthotics may also help reduce mechanical stress and future fracture risk.
William E. Donahue, DPM, FACFAS
