Fractures of the Fifth Metatarsal Treatment in Sinnamon Park

What is a Fracture of the Fifth Metatarsal?

A fifth metatarsal bone fracture is a complete or incomplete break in the fifth metatarsal bone in your outside edge of your foot. These long thin bones are located between the tarsal bones and the phalanges. Anyone can get a Fifth metatarsal fracture, however they are common in the paediatric population, accounting for approximately 65% of all paediatric metatarsal fractures. Athletes, people who are obese, people with osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes also have an increased risk of metatarsal fractures.

Types of Fifth Metatarsal Fractures

What are the symptoms of a Fifth Metatarsal Fracture?

Symptoms are generally the same regardless of fracture type, with the location of the symptoms often indicating where the fracture has occurred.

• Bruising to outside of foot
• Pain or discomfort
• Swelling
• Tenderness
• Difficulty walking or weight bearing

What can I do at home?

• Resting the foot and limiting weight bearing
• Wearing loose shoes
• Elevation above heart level to help reduce swelling
• Icing for 10 to 20 minutes every 2-3 hours