The foot and ankle surgeon may use one of these nonsurgical options for treatment of a fifth metatarsal fracture:
Elevation: The foot should be raised slightly above the level of your heart to reduce swelling. Compression: An elastic wrap should be used to control swelling. Use ice for 20 minutes and then wait at least 40 minutes before icing again. Ice: Apply an ice pack to the injured area, placing a thin towel between the ice and the skin. Until you are able to see a foot and ankle surgeon, the RICE method of care should be performed: Because a Jones fracture sometimes does not show up on initial x-rays, additional imaging studies may be needed. The foot will be examined, with the doctor gently pressing on different areas of the foot to determine where there is pain. To arrive at a diagnosis, the surgeon will ask how the injury occurred or when the pain started. Pain, swelling and tenderness on the outside of the footĪnyone who has symptoms of a fifth metatarsal fracture should see a foot and ankle surgeon as soon as possible for proper diagnosis and treatment. Examples include midshaft fractures, which usually result from trauma or twisting, and fractures of the metatarsal head and neck.Īvulsion and Jones fractures have the same signs and symptoms. Other types of fractures can occur in the fifth metatarsal. They are less common and more difficult to treat than avulsion fractures. Jones fractures are caused by overuse, repetitive stress or trauma. A Jones fracture can be either a stress fracture (a tiny hairline break that occurs over time) or an acute (sudden) break. Jones fractures occur in a small area of the fifth metatarsal that receives less blood and is therefore more prone to difficulties in healing. Avulsion fractures are often overlooked when they occur with an ankle sprain. This type of fracture is the result of an injury in which the ankle rolls. In an avulsion fracture, a small piece of bone is pulled off the main portion of the bone by a tendon or ligament. Two types of fractures that often occur in the fifth metatarsal are: The fifth metatarsal is the long bone on the outside of the foot that connects to the little toe. Fractures of the Fifth Metatarsal What Is a Fifth Metatarsal Fracture?įifth metatarsal fractures (breaks) are common foot foot injuries. Please enable Javascript in your browser. You can contact the Virtual Trauma Assessment ClinicĮmail: 087 1989980 1.30-2.Javascript is required to view the content on this page. For more information contact the National Quit Hotline on 1800 201 203, freetext QUIT to 50100 or visit Further information We would advise you to stop smoking, at least for the duration of the healing process. Research suggests that smoking slows down fracture healing time. You will be provided with more information on return to activity during your phone call from the clinic. However, it may take several months for your symptoms to settle fully. Then repeat rotating your ankle in the opposite direction Repeat x 10 times Gently rotate your ankle in a circle first moving clockwise. /GettyImages-562597621-56a6da0a3df78cf772908d6b.jpg "fifth metatarsal")
Then gently roll the sole of your foot outwards (as if trying to look under your little toe). Sitting or lying, gently roll the sole of your foot inwards (as if you are trying to look under your big toe). In sitting or lying down point your toes to the ground and then bend them back to point your toes towards your head. We recommend you do the exercises below 4 times daily.
Do not apply ice directly to the skin as is may cause a burn.Įarly range of motion exercises for your ankle are important to promote circulation and reduce stiffness. We recommend applying ice wrapped in a damp towel for 15 minutes, 3-4 times per day. You can apply ice to help with pain and swelling.You should rest your injured limb for the next 24-72 hours with your foot in elevation. Swelling can be reduced by resting the leg in elevation (above the level of your hip).
Please speak to a pharmacist or your GP if you require further advice regarding pain relief.
Over the counter pain relief can help to decrease the soreness. This should settle over a period of several weeks. Pain and swelling over the fracture are normal. We recommend wearing a stiff soled shoe/runner to provide some stability and support. You can remove the boot in bed and at rest.įrom week 4-6 you should gradually wean out of the boot. Weight bearing through the foot while in the boot improves the rate of healing and reduces your recovery time. Elbow crutches will be provided if required. You may walk in the boot as much as pain allows. You will be provided with a removable walking boot. The fracture has occurred in a part of the bone which normally heals well without problems. You have broken a bone on the outer part of your foot. Base of 5th Metatarsal Fracture: advice for patients
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