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WASHINGTON: President-elect Joe Biden suffered hairline fractures in his foot while playing with one of his dogs and will probably have to wear a protective boot for several weeks.
The incident happened on Saturday and Biden visited an orthopedist for x-rays and a CT scan in Newark, Delaware, his office said in a statement. Doctors initially thought he had sprained his ankle but ordered an additional scan of the injury.
Biden’s personal physician Kevin O’Connor said a follow-up CT scan confirmed hairline fractures on two small bones in the middle of his right foot. He said Biden will likely require a walking boot for several weeks.
After defeating President Donald Trump in the presidential election, Biden will be the oldest person ever to assume the office when he enters the White House on January 20. His health is likely to be watched closely by allies and opponents alike.
Trump, who has not conceded defeat in the election and is contesting the results in court, wished Biden a speedy recovery. “Get well soon!” Trump said in a Tweet.
Fractures are a concern generally as people age, but Biden’s appears to be a relatively mild one based on his doctor’s statement and treatment. Biden has often dismissed questions about his age during the campaign.
Biden sustained the injury playing with Major, one of his two dogs. The Biden family adopted Major in 2018, and acquired their first dog, Champ, after the 2008 election. The Bidens have said they will bring their dogs to the White House and also plan to get a cat.
Last December he released a doctor’s report that disclosed he takes a statin to keep his cholesterol at healthy levels, but his doctor described him as “healthy, vigorous” and “fit to successfully execute the duties of the presidency.”
