Where are your metatarsal bone?

The metatarsal bones are the bones of the forefoot that connect the distal aspects of the cuneiform (medial, intermediate and lateral) bones and cuboid bone to the base of the five phalanges of the foot. There are five metatarsal bones, numbered one to five from the hallux (great toe) to the small toe.

1. Can you still walk with a metatarsal fracture?
2. Where does a metatarsal fracture hurt?
3. How long does it take for a broken metatarsal bone to heal?
4. How do you tell if a metatarsal is broken?
5. Do you need a cast for a broken metatarsal?
6. Can you move your toes with a broken metatarsal?
7. What does a 5th metatarsal fracture feel like?
8. How do I know if my foot is broken or just bruised?
9. Can a metatarsal fracture heal without a boot?
10. Do I need to see a doctor for metatarsalgia?
11. Is metatarsalgia serious?
12. How do you diagnose a metatarsal stress fracture?
13. What does a hairline fracture in foot feel like?
14. Can a metatarsal fracture heal on its own?

Can you still walk with a metatarsal fracture?

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 does a metatarsal fracture hurt?

Typically the stress fracture causes a tender area along the line of the second or third metatarsal bone. There may be some swelling but there is usually no bruising.

How long does it take for a broken metatarsal bone to heal?

Your doctor may have put your foot in a cast or splint to keep it stable. You may have been given crutches to use to keep weight off your foot. 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.

How do you tell if a metatarsal is broken?

You may hear a sound at the time of the break. “Pinpoint pain” (pain at the place of impact) at the time the fracture occurs and perhaps for a few hours later, but often the pain goes away after several hours. Crooked or abnormal appearance of the toe. Bruising and swelling the next day.

Do you need a cast for a broken metatarsal?

If your bones are still aligned (meaning that the broken ends meet), you will probably wear a cast or splint for 6 to 8 weeks. You may be told not to put weight on your foot. You will need crutches or other support to help you get around.

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.

What does a 5th metatarsal fracture feel like?

According to the ACFAS consumer Web site FootPhysicans.com, symptoms of a fractured fifth metatarsal include pain, swelling and tenderness, difficulty walking, and occasional bruising. Most people walk on the outside of their feet, making this metatarsal particularly vulnerable.

How do I know if my foot is broken or just bruised?

In general, a broken foot tends to be more painful than a sprained foot, and the pain lasts longer. Bruising, swelling, and tenderness are also more severe if your foot is broken. Another way to tell the difference between a broken foot and sprained foot is the sound the body makes when the injury occurs.

Can a metatarsal fracture heal without a boot?

The boot you have been given is not needed to aid fracture healing but will help to settle your symptoms. Wear the boot when you are walking.

Do I need to see a doctor for metatarsalgia?

How is metatarsalgia diagnosed? If your pain in the metatarsal area persists for a few days after resting your feet or changing your footwear, it's best to see a doctor. Your doctor will examine your foot and ask you to walk so they can observe your gait.

Is metatarsalgia serious?

Although generally not serious, metatarsalgia can sideline you. Fortunately, at-home treatments, such as ice and rest, often relieve symptoms. Wearing proper footwear with shock-absorbing insoles or arch supports might prevent or minimize future problems with metatarsalgia.

How do you diagnose a metatarsal stress fracture?

If you have symptoms common to a stress fracture, it's important to get an accurate diagnosis as early as possible. An imaging test, such as an X-ray, MRI, or bone scan, is required to accurately diagnose the location and extent of a stress fracture.

What does a hairline fracture in foot feel like?

What are the symptoms of a hairline fracture? The most common symptom of a hairline fracture is pain. This pain can gradually get worse over time, especially if you don't stop weight-bearing activity. Pain is usually worse during activity and lessens during rest.

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.