How is a fifth metatarsal base fracture treated?

Zone 1 fractures are avulsion or chip fractures that occur at the tip of the base of the fifth metatarsal. These fractures typically are treated without surgery using a cast, boot, or hard-soled shoe and tend to heal within 6-8 weeks.

How long does a broken metatarsal take to heal in a child?

A metatarsal fracture may take from 6 weeks to several months to heal. It is important to give your child’s foot time to heal completely, so that he or she does not hurt it again. Do not let your child return to usual activities until your doctor says he or she can.

How long does it take for a 5th metatarsal fracture to heal?

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 can I speed up the healing of a broken 5th metatarsal?

Nonsurgical Treatment

1. Rest: Stay off the injured foot.
2. Ice: Apply an ice pack to the injured area, placing a thin towel between the ice and the skin.
3. Compression: An elastic wrap should be used to control swelling.
4. Elevation: The foot should be raised slightly above the level of your heart to reduce swelling.

How do I know if my child has a broken metatarsal?

What are the signs and symptoms of a foot fracture?

1. Pain and swelling in the injured foot.
2. Decreased ability to move the foot or walk.
3. Bruising or open breaks in the skin of the injured foot.
4. A different shape to your child’s foot.

Can a metatarsal fracture heal on its own?

Can a metatarsal fracture heal on its own? A metatarsal fracture needs to be evaluated and treated by a medical professional who will prescribe a treatment plan to ensure that it heals correctly. This could include wearing a cast or walking boot and keeping weight off it for a few weeks, or it may include surgery.

How long will fracture of 5th metatarsal take to heal?

Foot injuries especially a 5th metatarsal fracture can take up to 3 months to heal in most cases. If your fracture has not healed after 3 months, you may need a bone stimulator to increase the chance of fully healing the fracture. Consult with your foot specialist to make sure your fracture is showing signs of healing.

What happens if I fracture my 5th metatarsal?

A fracture at the base of the fifth metatarsal bone is often mistaken for an ankle sprain and therefore not rested or supported enough. This can lead to problems in healing and continuing pain. A full-thickness fracture which is displaced and not ‘put back’ into line can heal ‘out of shape’, leading to deformity of the foot, sometimes making shoe fitting difficult.

What type of fractures happen most in children?

What Is the Most Common Fracture in Children? Salter Harris Fractures. A Salter Harris fracture is a fracture that occurs in growth plate or the epiphyseal plate. Distal Radius Fractures. The Distal Radius Fracture cases that are often found in children are Torus fractures and Greenstick fracture. Clavicular fracture. Tibial Shaft Fracture. Radial Head Subluxation.

How are foot fractures of the fifth metatarsal treated?

The foot and ankle surgeon may use one of these nonsurgical options for treatment of a fifth metatarsal fracture: Immobilization . Depending on the severity of the injury, the foot is kept immobile with a cast, cast boot or stiff-soled shoe. Crutches may also be needed to avoid placing weight on the injured foot.