By When is surgery needed for 5th metatarsal fracture?
If your physician cannot put your fifth metatarsal back into position after a fracture, you may need to undergo surgery to reconstruct the bone. Surgery typically is prescribed for severe fractures that have displaced the bone.
How long does it take for a fifth metatarsal fracture to heal after surgery?
Following treatment, it may take eight to 12 weeks for the bone fracture to fully heal, with a gradual return to normal activity within four months. Over 90% of 5th metatarsal fractures heal without any problems, and you will be able to return to your usual sports activities.
How is a fifth metatarsal fracture treated?
Nonsurgical Treatment
- Rest: Stay off the injured foot.
- Ice: Apply an ice pack to the injured area, placing a thin towel between the ice and the skin.
- Compression: An elastic wrap should be used to control swelling.
- Elevation: The foot should be raised slightly above the level of your heart to reduce swelling.
How painful is a 5th metatarsal fracture?
Symptoms of a fifth 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.
What happens after 5th metatarsal surgery?
For the first 7-14 days after surgery, you may be allowed to bear weight through your heel but typically not through the front of your foot. This could last as long as six weeks (sometimes longer based on healing and other factors such as diabetes). Weight bearing in a removable walking boot is allowed after that.
Can I drive with a 5th metatarsal fracture?
You may notice pain walking on uneven ground for weeks, or months, after the break has healed. Sports should not be considered until walking is pain free. Exceptions would be swimming and cycling – as long as there is no pain while doing them. Driving should only be done if you can safely do an emergency stop.
Can you walk on a fractured 5th metatarsal?
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. However, it may take several months for your symptoms to settle completely.
How did you break your 5th metatarsal?
Fifth metatarsal fractures are generally the result of trauma to the foot, caused either by a direct blow or a rotational (twisting) injury. Rolling your foot and ankle toward the outside, called an inversion injury, is the most common cause of fifth metatarsal fractures (and also a common cause of ankle fractures.)
What does broken 5th metatarsal feel like?
How long does a 5th 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.
How long does it take to recover from a spiral fracture?
Bones grow very slow, so many spiral fractures take about four to six months to heal. Prompt treatment is important for proper healing.