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Fifth metatarsal fracture of the foot

by Alivia Nyhan
Published: Last Updated on

The fifth metatarsal is located on the outside of our foot, it is the bone that connects with the little finger, a delicate area that can fracture in the event of a blow, sprain or major twist, an injury that is known as the Jones fracture. . A Jones fracture causes pain and swelling on the outside of the foot, as well as difficulty walking and possible bruising. Once we have been diagnosed with a fracture in the fifth metatarsal of the foot, it is important to follow the medical indications and fully respect the suggested rest. In this FastlyHealarticle we explain more about the Jones fracture.

How long does it take for these types of fractures to heal?

The healing time of a fifth metatarsal fracture will basically depend on the location of the fracture , the type of injury we are talking about and also the general bone health of the patient. On average and following medical advice, Jones fractures take 6 to 8 weeks to fully heal.

Treatment of fifth metatarsal fracture

The 5th metatarsal fracture generally has conservative treatment, that is, immobilization and relative rest . Depending on the type of fracture, a cast can be applied or the use of a cast splint or boot that can be removed to allow cleaning of the area can be recommended. Ideally, not support the foot and use crutches to move, which will clearly limit the performance of physical activity with the lower trunk for the duration of the injury. Placing any type of weight on the affected foot should be avoided.

Adequate rest is essential to reduce pain and discomfort caused by the fracture of the fifth metatarsal of the foot . A good way to reduce swelling is to raise the affected leg slightly above the heart, which will improve circulation and relieve some discomfort. In addition, and in the case of patients who do not have a cast, a cold compress can be applied to the area for 20 minutes 3 times a day, which will help reduce inflammation and pain.

Taking over-the-counter pain relievers can help decrease pain. In the same way, it is possible that the doctor indicates the performance of some exercises, usually from the third week, which will help you improve mobility and strength in the area by the time you can walk again.

Exercises to improve foot mobility

In some cases the fracture of the fifth metatarsal of the foot requires physiotherapy, however there are several exercises that we can perform at home to improve the mobility of the area and gain strength. Some of the most recommended are:

  • Raise your foot slightly and point your toes up and down trying to stretch them well. The pose should be held for at least 5 seconds.
  • Stretch your toes outward and then roll them inward, making an effort to hold each position for a few seconds.
  • On the ground or in the air, try to write the alphabet with the toes of the injured foot.
  • Roll up a towel or cloth on the floor and try to drag it towards you with your toes.

It is important to be consistent with the exercises as these will help prepare the foot for the moment when the cast or splint is removed, ensuring that the area will not be atrophied or very weak.

When is surgery needed?

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat Jones’ fracture. This option is taken into account when:

  • The immobilization has not had the expected effect and the fracture has not healed as it should.
  • When the fracture causes the bones to stop being aligned, in this case the only way to treat the condition is with surgery, after which the use of a plaster splint will also be required for 6 to 8 weeks.

This article is merely informative, at FastlyHeal .com we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.

If you want to read more articles similar to Fracture of the fifth metatarsal of the foot , we recommend that you enter our category of Bones, Joints and Muscles .

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