Can you walk on a fractured 5th metatarsal?

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 long does it take to recover from a 5th metatarsal fracture?

The fracture may take 6 weeks to several months to heal. It is important to give your foot time to heal completely so that you don’t hurt it again. Do not return to your usual activities until your doctor says you can.

How do you treat a fractured 5th metatarsal?

Treatment for a fifth metatarsal fracture

  1. Cold therapy. Putting ice on the area may reduce swelling and pain, especially in the first few days after injury.
  2. Elevation.
  3. Prescription or over-the-counter pain medicines.
  4. Immobilization.
  5. Stretching and strengthening exercises.
  6. Surgery.

How serious is a fifth metatarsal fracture?

It may involve a portion of the bone or fully fracture the bone into segments. Injuries that cause fifth metatarsal avulsion fractures are typically violent and may cause the bone to break into many tiny pieces. Most avulsion fractures of the fifth metatarsal don’t require surgery.

Is it OK to walk on a broken metatarsal?

A patient with a broken metatarsal may be able to walk, depending on how painful the injury is. Despite this, the patient with a metatarsal fracture is advised to avoid excessive walking, especially on uneven ground, to eliminate the risk of displacement.

Is it easy to break your 5th metatarsal?

The metatarsal bones help people balance while standing and walking. Because these bones get much more use than other bones, it is easy to injure them through overuse. Sudden acute injuries of the metatarsals are common after a sudden impact or severe twist of the foot.

How do you know if I broke my 5th metatarsal?

The most common symptoms of an acute fifth metatarsal fracture include pain, swelling and tenderness on the outside of the foot, as well as difficulty walking. In some cases, bruising may occur.

Can a 5th metatarsal fracture get worse?

What are the complications of metatarsal fractures? If properly treated then metatarsal fractures should heal without long-term consequences. If not recognised and treated then some of these problems can occur: A metatarsal stress fracture can become gradually worse if repeated stress to the bone continues.

Do you need a boot for a 5th metatarsal fracture?

There are five metatarsal bones in each foot, you have fractured the fifth which is on the outer edge of the foot. This is a common fracture. You will be given a removable boot to wear to support your foot; this should be used for two to six weeks to enable you to walk more comfortably whilst the injury heals.