Fracture 5th Metatarsal

A fracture of the 5th metatarsal may present as pain and swelling on the outside of the foot. A fracture or break in a bone occurs when more force is applied to a bone than it can withstand or is weakened as a result of a disease of the bone. A fracture can occur at any location on the 5th metatarsal. It can be partial or complete in nature and it can be displaced or non displaced. The two most common fractures of a 5th metatarsal are avulsion fractures and Jones fractures. An avulsion fracture of the 5th metatarsal base typically occurs as a result of an ankle sprain where the peroneus brevis tendon pulls off a piece of the bone. A Jones fracture also occurs toward the base of the 5th metatarsal and is due to overuse or trauma. Jones fractures are difficult to heal due to poor blood supply in that area.

Treatment of a 5th metatarsal fracture is dependent upon the severity of the injury. X-rays and other imaging studies may be necessary to determine the extent of the fracture.

In severe 5th metatarsal fractures surgery may be required to put the bones back in proper alignment followed by immobilization to allow them to heal. For simple stable 5th metatarsal fractures immobilization alone may all that is needed.

Footsupplystore.com carries a variety of products to aid in the treatment and recovery of a 5th metatarsal fracture. A removable Cam Walker is often used to provide protection and restrict motion of the foot allowing the 5th metatarsal bone to heal properly.