What is a metatarsal neck fracture?

What is a metatarsal neck fracture?

What are Metatarsal Neck Fractures. Injuries of these metatarsals usually occur as fractures of the neck region, shaft fractures or stress fractures. Metatarsal neck fractures often affect more than one metatarsal bone and are caused by dropping a weight on the instep, kicking or loading when on tiptoe.

How do you know if you have a metatarsal fracture?

Acute metatarsal fractures

1. Most can be seen easily on X-ray.
2. Computerised tomography (CT) scanning or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanning is occasionally needed.
3. The doctors will need to determine if the fracture is displaced, which may mean that the bones need to be re-aligned and held in place.

What does a 5th metatarsal fracture feel like?

According to the ACFAS consumer Web site FootPhysicans.com, symptoms of a fractured fifth metatarsal include pain, swelling and tenderness, difficulty walking, and occasional bruising. Most people walk on the outside of their feet, making this metatarsal particularly vulnerable.

When can I put weight on a broken metatarsal?

If your bones are still aligned (meaning that the broken ends meet), you will probably wear a cast or splint for 6 to 8 weeks. You may be told not to put weight on your foot. You will need crutches or other support to help you get around.

How long will fracture of 5th metatarsal take to heal?

Foot injuries especially a 5th metatarsal fracture can take up to 3 months to heal in most cases. If your fracture has not healed after 3 months, you may need a bone stimulator to increase the chance of fully healing the fracture. Consult with your foot specialist to make sure your fracture is showing signs of healing.

What happens if I fracture my 5th metatarsal?

A fracture at the base of the fifth metatarsal bone is often mistaken for an ankle sprain and therefore not rested or supported enough. This can lead to problems in healing and continuing pain. A full-thickness fracture which is displaced and not ‘put back’ into line can heal ‘out of shape’, leading to deformity of the foot, sometimes making shoe fitting difficult.

How are foot fractures of the fifth metatarsal treated?

The foot and ankle surgeon may use one of these nonsurgical options for treatment of a fifth metatarsal fracture: Immobilization . Depending on the severity of the injury, the foot is kept immobile with a cast, cast boot or stiff-soled shoe. Crutches may also be needed to avoid placing weight on the injured foot.

What are the first signs of a metatarsal stress fracture?

Symptoms of a metatarsal stress fracture include: Pain in the forefoot which develops gradually over time. The pain will be usually be located towards the middle, or front of the foot. Symptoms are made worse with weight-bearing activities such as walking, running or dancing.