DeLay Quits Dancing With the Stars

Former House Republican Majority Leader Tom DeLay (R-TX) has been forced to withdraw from Season 9 of ABC's Dancing with the Stars due to stress fractures in both his feet. Stress fractures occur when a bone is put under stress repeatedly, leading to weakening of the integrity of the bone. If not properly treated stress fractures can progress to be complete fractures. Mr. DeLay knew of his condition prior to Monday's show but decided to participate anyway against the advice of his podiatrist and the Producers of Dancing with the Stars saying "Whats a little pain when we can party." His gutsy effort was lauded by the judges (but not his performance as he only received 15 points.) Stress fractures are not always found on x-rays. X-ray changes may not show up with a stress fracture for over 2 weeks. Other imaging studies such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) are much better at early detection of stress fractures. Stress fractures of the feet and ankles can usually be treated conservatively. Usually I ask patients to significantly back down on their activity, and to use an orthopedic shoe or boot to protect the injured bone(s). Medicated bandages are often used to help with the pain and swelling associated with stress fracture. Mr. DeLay also used a "bone stimulator", an electrical device that emits either ultrasound or radio-frequency waves that stimulates the bone to heal itself (however these aren't always covered by insurance for stress fractures.) Mr. DeLay also claims to have received cortisone shots in the areas to help with his pain. While the cortisone can help with pain and inflammation I do not use them with stress fractures as they can actually further weaken the bone that is injured. If properly treated it is very rare for stress fractures to end up needing surgery. To prevent stress fractures of your feet and ankle do not rapidly start or increase your physical activity. Stress fractures of the feet are often called "march fractures" as they are very common amongst the boot camp attendees in the military because of the increased physical activity they do at boot camp. If a stress fracture occurs without an increase in activity or injury it may be an early sign of osteoporosis (weakening of the bones.) Stress fractures of your feet and ankles should never be treated without the assistance of your podiatrist or other medical professional.