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Location: Arkansas, United States

Tuesday, April 29, 2008

Metatarsal Fracture

What is a metatarsal fracture?

The metatarsals are the long bones of the feet.
How does it occur?

Mid-shaft fracture: This usually occurs from a
violent twist of the foot, but can also happen if a
heavy object lands on the foot.

Jones fracture: This is a stress fracture caused from
overuse. Because of overactivity, the bone gradually
wears out and breaks.

What are the symptoms?
Pain, swelling, and tenderness on the outer side
of the foot. There will be difficulty walking.
(My symptoms sound like a Jones fracture or actually a
combination of Jones and mid-shaft fracture)

How is it diagnosed?
Your provider will review your symptoms, ask how
you injured your foot, and examine you.
Ddiagnosed by an x-ray showing a break in the bone.
Some x-rays do not detect stress fractures, and a special
test called a bone scan may need to be done.

How is it treated?
The treatment depends on the type of fracture you have.
There are several ways to treat each type of fracture.

Mid-shaft fracture: This can be treated by wearing a
stiff-soled shoe, a removable cast boot, or a cast for 6 to
8 weeks. You will usually be on crutches until you can walk
without pain.

Jones fracture: These fractures sometimes take a longer time
to heal. A stress fracture can be treated with a removable cast boot or
cast worn for 6 to 8 weeks. You may need to have surgery and
have a screw placed in your bone to holdthe broken
bone together. You willusually be on crutches until you walk
without pain.
(I was told yesterday that if this casting does not work,
I will have to have a pin placed)

Treatment will also include:
Elevating your foot by placing a pillow underneath it. Try
to keep your foot above the level of your heart.
*
Taking an anti-inflammatory medicine or other pain
medicine prescribed by your provider.
*
If you are not in a cast, you should apply ice packs to your
for 20 to 30minutes every 3 to 4 hours for the first 2
to 3 daysor until the pain goes away. Thereafter, ice your
foot at leastonce a day until the other symptoms are gone.

How long will the effects last?
Fifth metatarsal fractures usually heal within 6 weeks.
Jones fractures may take longer to heal
and may need surgery.

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