Amanda Ventura, Physiotherapist
How to Treat Metatarsal Stress Fractures
A metatarsal stress fracture is a small hairline crack in one of the long bones in the foot.
It's caused by repetitive stress on the bone, like from running or jumping. Metatarsal stress fractures are common in athletes, especially runners.
Symptoms of a Metatarsal Stress Fracture
The most common symptom of a metatarsal stress fracture is pain in the foot.
The pain is usually worse with weight bearing and may be accompanied by swelling and bruising, though not always.
Diagnosis of a Metatarsal Stress Fracture
A doctor can diagnose a metatarsal stress fracture with a physical exam and X-ray. The X-ray may show a small crack in the bone, but it may not be visible until the fracture has been healing for several weeks.
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Treatment of a Metatarsal Stress Fracture
The goal of treatment for a metatarsal stress fracture is to allow the bone to heal. Treatment typically includes:
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Rest: The most important part of treatment is to rest the foot. This means avoiding activities that put weight on the foot, like running, jumping, and dancing.
- Ice: Ice can help to reduce pain and swelling. Apply ice to the foot for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
- Compression: Compression can help to reduce swelling. Wrap the foot with an elastic bandage or compression sleeve.
- Elevation: Elevating the foot can help to reduce swelling. Prop the foot up on a pillow or rolled towel when you are sitting or lying down.
In some cases, your sports physio or sports doctor may recommend other treatments, such as:
- Bracing or a CAM Boot (or Moon Boot): A brace or Boot can help to support the foot and reduce stress on the bone. Your local sports doctor or sports physiotherapist can assist you with the best type, and the duration and frequency of wearing your boot or brace for a metatarsal stress fracture.
- Medication: Your doctor may prescribe over-the-counter pain medication, like ibuprofen or naproxen. In some cases, they may also prescribe a stronger medication, like a corticosteroid injection.
- Surgery: Surgery is rarely needed to treat a metatarsal stress fracture. However, it may be necessary if the fracture is not healing or if the pain is severe.
Recovery from a Metatarsal Stress Fracture
The time it takes for a metatarsal stress fracture to heal varies depending on the severity of the fracture. Most fractures heal within 6-8 weeks. However, some fractures may take up to 12 weeks or more to heal.
During the healing process, it is important to listen to your body and rest when you need to. You should also avoid activities that put weight on the foot. Once the fracture has healed, you can gradually start to resume your normal activities.
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Prevention of Metatarsal Stress Fractures
The best way to prevent a metatarsal stress fracture is to avoid activities that put excessive stress on the foot. If you are an athlete, it is important to gradually increase your activity level and to wear supportive shoes.
You should also listen to your body and rest when you are feeling pain. Your body knows, and will give you signals, so don't push it! If it doesn't feel right, it probably isn't!
Summary of Metatarsal Stress Fractures
A metatarsal stress fracture is a small crack in one of the long bones in the foot. It is caused by repetitive stress on the bone, like from running or jumping. Metatarsal stress fractures are common in athletes, especially runners.
The goal of treatment for a metatarsal stress fracture is to allow the bone to heal. Treatment typically includes rest, ice, compression, and elevation. In some cases, your doctor may recommend other treatments, like bracing, medication, or surgery.
The time it takes for a metatarsal stress fracture to heal varies depending on the severity of the fracture. Most fractures heal within 6-8 weeks. However, some fractures may take up to 12 weeks or more to heal.
During the healing process, it is important to listen to your body and rest when you need to. You should also avoid activities that put weight on the foot. Once the fracture has healed, you can gradually start to resume your normal activities. You should definitely seek out a reloading plan via your local sports doctor or sports physiotherapist.
The best way to prevent a metatarsal stress fracture is to avoid activities that put excessive stress on the foot. If you are an athlete, it is important to gradually increase your activity level and to wear supportive shoes.
You should also listen to your body and rest when you are feeling pain.
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