How Do You Treat A Fifth Metatarsal Fracture?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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  1. Cold therapy. Putting ice on the area may reduce swelling and pain, especially in the first few days after injury.
  2. Elevation. …
  3. Prescription or over-the-counter pain medicines. …
  4. Immobilization. …
  5. Stretching and strengthening exercises. …
  6. Surgery.

Can you walk on a 5th metatarsal fracture?

You

can walk on your injured foot as much as your pain allows

. You should gradually stop using the supportive shoe over three to five weeks, as your pain settles. Most base of 5th metatarsal injuries heal without any problems.

What is the fastest way to heal a 5th metatarsal fracture?

  1. Cold therapy. Putting ice on the area may reduce swelling and pain, especially in the first few days after injury.
  2. Elevation. …
  3. Prescription or over-the-counter pain medicines. …
  4. Immobilization. …
  5. Stretching and strengthening exercises. …
  6. Surgery.

How painful is a 5th metatarsal fracture?


Sudden pain along the outside of your foot

is the main symptom. A stress fracture may develop more slowly. You may feel chronic pain for a period of time. Your foot may also swell up and bruise.

How long does it take for a fifth metatarsal fracture to heal?

A metatarsal fracture may take from

6 weeks to several months

to heal. It is important to give your foot time to heal completely, so that you do not hurt it again. Do not return to your usual activities until your doctor says you can.

Do you need physical therapy after a fifth metatarsal fracture?

Physical therapy after a

Jones fracture

Will walking on a fractured foot make it worse?

This

fracture gets worse with time if

you keep walking on it, so non-weight bearing is very important. People with this fracture are more likely to develop problems healing that require an operation.

What happens if you walk on a broken foot too soon?

Until you see a doctor for a diagnosis and treatment plan, you should not walk on a suspected broken foot, because walking on a broken foot too soon

could cause more damage to the foot

.

What does a fractured fifth metatarsal 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.

How bad does a broken foot hurt?

In general, a broken foot tends

to be more painful than a sprained foot

, and the pain lasts longer. Bruising, swelling, and tenderness are also more severe if your foot is broken. Another way to tell the difference between a broken foot and sprained foot is the sound the body makes when the injury occurs.

How long does a fifth metatarsal fracture hurt?

How long will it take to heal? Most fractures heal without any problems in

about six weeks

. However, it may take three to six months for your symptoms to settle completely – these can include pain or discomfort, stiffness, decreased strength, and swelling.

What does a metatarsal fracture feel like?

May make an audible sound at the time of the break and you will usually have

immediate pain and tenderness

around the area of the fracture. The pain is often called ‘pinpoint pain’ as it is quite well localised at the site of impact to the bone.

How soon can I run after breaking my 5th metatarsal?

You can return to your activities when you can perform them without pain. This will typically take

six to 12 weeks

. When you do start exercising again, you should gradually build up your activity levels. A sudden return to high-intensity exercise after a break may cause a repeat or a new fracture, or other injury.

How long does foot stay swollen after fracture?

Most fractures heal without any problems in about six weeks. However, it may take

three to six months

for your symptoms to settle completely – these can include pain or discomfort, stiffness, decreased strength, and swelling. The bones may take longer to heal if you suffer from diabetes or if you smoke.

How long will foot be swollen after fracture?

Healing: This injury normally takes

6 weeks

to heal.
Pain and Swelling: The swelling is often worse at the end of the day and elevating your foot will help. Take pain killers as prescribed.

When can I start walking on my broken foot?

Activity. As you recover, your provider will instruct you to begin moving your foot. This may be

as soon as 3 weeks or as long 8 weeks after your injury

. When you restart an activity after a fracture, build up slowly.

Diane Mitchell
Author
Diane Mitchell
Diane Mitchell is an animal lover and trainer with over 15 years of experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, and horses. She has worked with leading animal welfare organizations. Diane is passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership and educating pet owners on the best practices for training and caring for their furry friends.