Can you walk on a fractured fifth metatarsal?
Can you walk on a fractured fifth 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 do you immobilize a metatarsal fracture?
After conditions that require emergent referral have been ruled out (Table 2), nondisplaced metatarsal shaft fractures may be treated with a soft, padded elastic dressing or immobilized in a posterior splint. Crutches should be provided and weight bearing allowed as tolerated, with follow-up in three to five days.
How long does it take for a nondisplaced metatarsal fracture to heal?
A metatarsal fracture may take from 6 weeks to several months to heal. It is important to give your foot time to heal completely, so that you do not hurt it again.
Can a displaced metatarsal heal without surgery?
Most metatarsal fractures can be treated without surgery. A stiff soled shoe, walking boot, or even a cast may be used. The amount of pressure you are able to put on your foot will depend on which bones are broken. Your treating physician will decide this.
Can you move your toes with a broken metatarsal?
Broken bones in the foot cause pain and swelling. Usually (but not always) the pain is so bad, you are not able to walk. Broken bones in the toes cause less pain, and you may be able to walk with a broken toe.
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.
Where is the 5th metatarsal in the foot?
The fifth metatarsal is the long bone on the outside of the foot that connects to the small toe. Fracture are common in this bone, but can happen in different areas.
How do I know if I broke my 5th metacarpal?
Symptoms of a metacarpal fracture usually include one or more of the following:
- Hand pain and tenderness to touch (over the back of the hand or palm)
- Hand swelling.
- Hand bruising.
- Hand pain / grinding when making a fist.
- Hand deformity (fingers may not line up normally when making a fist)
