Metatarsal Stress Fracture
A stress fracture is a small crack or break in the bone due to repetitive stress. It is most common in the metatarsal bones of the foot, although it can occur in any bone. The patient may develop pain in the forefoot after normal activity with no knowledge of a prior injury. A stress fracture is not usually seen on an x-ray for about 3 weeks. The second and third metatarsals are most commonly affected.
Symptoms
- Severe pain in the forefoot, which is aggravated by walking.
- The top surface of the metatarsal bone is tender to the touch.
- The forefoot may become swollen.
Causes
- Abnormal stress on a metatarsal due to improper alignment or mechanics
- Decreased bone density such as seen with osteoporosis
- Higher levels of activity without prior conditioning
- Obesity
What should you do?
- R.I.C.E
- Rest
- Ice area for 15 minutes every hour.
- Compression wrap in tensor bandage to reduce swelling.
- Elevation- Keep your foot up, such that it is non-weight bearing.
- Wear a shoe with a stiff sole to prevent your forefoot from bending when you walk.
- See your chiropodist or family doctor as soon as possible.
What will your chiropodist do?
- Take an x-ray to look for a full fracture.
- May apply tape strapping and padding to relieve stress.
- Use of surgical/trauma shoe in order to splint the foot.
- Anti-inflammatory medication to reduce swelling and relieve pain.
- Use of Extra-corporeal Shockwave Therapy to increase blood vessel growth and aid healing of fracture.
- Physical Therapy in the later stages
- May refer for special diagnostic tests such as a bone scan to determine a questionable diagnosis.
- In some cases, a plaster cast may be necessary.
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