Ugh! I feel like my sports themed posts always start off with that. Today ESPN reports that our ON FIRE goalie, Ilya Bryzgalov, has a chip fracture in his right foot. He suffered it during warmups and will be out for the next game.
You might be asking: Dr. Pagano, why is Bryzgalov out of the lineup for only one game and not the customary 4-6 weeks?
Well it’s because a chip fracture is a small fragment that literally chips or rips off of the bone. This occurs from direct trauma (hockey puck) or a ligament or tendon pulling on a small portion of bone. This differs from a typical fracture that is a break through the bone. A typical fracture can be unstable, cause misalignment of the bones, and lead to disability without treatment. A chip fracture is less serious and does not affect the integrity of the bone.
Typical treatment of a chip fracture is R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, compression, and elevation.) In contrast, a normal fracture requires stabilization. This can include casting and/or surgery.
Depending on the location and the severity of the chip fracture, your activity levels and recovery time will differ. If the fracture is in a weight bearing area, the pressure will prolong the healing time. Remaining off your feet may be the treatment of choice. If the chip is in a non weight bearing area and activity will not affect the healing, you may not be as restricted in your recovery.
Keep in mind the foot will still go through the healing process. Bryzgalov will be dealing with discomfort and swelling in the area of the fracture and that may affect his equipment and movement between the pipes.
A key point is early recognition of a problem. Bryzgalov had pain and got an MRI right away. If you hurt yourself and you have pain in your foot, don’t wait. Contact your favorite podiatrist (wink,wink) so that your road to recovery can begin.
Think you have a problem? Do you want early diagnosis and a speedy recovery? Contact us at Barking Dogs Foot and Ankle Care or at www.barkingdogspodiatry.com.
Just when we thought were free of a goalie controversy…. let’s just hope Bryzgalov recovers quickly!
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