A stress fracture is a small break in bone caused by repetitive stress to a bone. These were once called "march" fractures from the marching produced by soldiers. They have also been common in running and can stop a runner who has created repetitive stress through their training regimin. In DeLay's case, they started as painful pre-stress fractures that progressed to stress fractures in both feet. Had he undergone the recommended treatments or limited his activities as suggested, it may not have progressed to fractures on both feet.
So once again, pain is never normal and should be treated prior to it progressing. Pre-stress fractures would be better than stress fractures. Visit Why Do My Feet Hurt? at Mountain West Foot & Ankle Institute for more information on other reasons your feet may hurt.
Dr Brandt R Gibson
Mountain West Foot & Ankle Institute
36 North 1100 East, Suite B
American Fork, UT 84003
801-756-0765
http://www.utahfootdoc.com/