What Is a Metatarsal Fracture? Symptoms and Treatment Options Explained

At Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists of Arizona, we understand how foot injuries, such as a metatarsal fracture, can significantly impact your daily life. Whether you're in Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, or Tempe, foot pain can affect your mobility, making it essential to address the issue promptly.

A metatarsal fracture is one of the most common types of foot fractures, often caused by trauma or repetitive stress. Understanding its symptoms, causes, and available treatment options can help you find relief and avoid long-term complications. In this blog, we’ll explain what a metatarsal fracture is, how it occurs, and the best ways to treat it.

What is a Metatarsal Fracture?

The metatarsals are the five long bones located in the midfoot, connecting the toes to the rest of the foot. A metatarsal fracture occurs when one of these bones is broken or cracked. This injury can range from a small hairline crack to a complete break, and it can happen to anyone, regardless of age or activity level.

Metatarsal fractures are common in athletes, especially runners, dancers, and those who engage in high-impact sports. However, they can also occur in everyday activities, such as dropping something heavy on the foot or twisting the foot awkwardly during walking or running.

Causes and Risk Factors

Metatarsal fractures can happen due to a variety of reasons, including:

• Trauma or Impact: Dropping a heavy object on the foot, a direct blow, or a sudden twisting motion can result in a fracture.
  
  
• Repetitive Stress: Overuse injuries, such as from running, jumping, or dancing, can cause stress fractures in the metatarsals.
  
  
• Foot Deformities: Certain foot conditions, like bunions, flat feet, or high arches, can increase the risk of fractures due to abnormal foot mechanics.
  
  
• Improper Footwear: Wearing shoes that do not offer adequate support can increase the risk of injury, especially during physical activities.
  
  
• Age: As people age, bones may weaken and become more prone to fractures, even from minor impacts.
  
  

Symptoms of a Metatarsal Fracture

If you have a metatarsal fracture, you may experience the following symptoms:

• Pain and tenderness in the midfoot, which may worsen with activity or pressure.
  
  
• Swelling around the injured area.
  
  
• Bruising or discoloration near the fracture site.
  
  
• Difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected foot.
  
  
• Deformity of the foot, particularly if the fracture is severe or involves displacement of the bone.
  
  
• Inability to move the toes or difficulty pointing or flexing them.
  
  

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek professional care from a podiatrist at Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists of Arizona for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Diagnosing a Metatarsal Fracture

To diagnose a metatarsal fracture, Dr. Alex Stewart, DPM, FACFAS and Dr. Antonius Su, DPM will perform a physical examination to assess the location and severity of the pain. Imaging tests, such as X-rays and Ultrasound are essential to confirm the presence of a fracture and determine its type (stress fracture, hairline fracture, or complete break). In some cases, advanced imaging, like an MRI or CT scan, may be used to get a clearer view of the injury.

Treatment Options for Metatarsal Fractures

The treatment for a metatarsal fracture will depend on the type, severity, and location of the injury. Common treatment options include:

1. Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatment

For most metatarsal fractures, especially stress fractures or minor breaks, non-surgical treatment is sufficient. This may include:

• Rest and Immobilization: Limiting movement and avoiding weight-bearing activities can promote healing. A cast, walking boot, or brace is typically used to immobilize the foot and prevent further injury.
  
  
• Ice and Elevation: Applying ice to the injured area helps reduce swelling and pain. Elevating the foot above heart level can also alleviate swelling.
  
  
• Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage pain and inflammation.
  
  
• Crutches: Using crutches can help offload pressure from the injured foot, allowing the bone to heal.
  
  

2. MLS Laser Therapy

For faster healing and reduced pain, MLS Laser Therapy is an effective, non-invasive treatment. This therapy uses light energy to penetrate tissues, reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and promote the healing of bones and soft tissues. It’s a great option for patients with moderate fractures looking for enhanced recovery.

3. Surgical Treatment

In more severe cases, where the bone is displaced or the fracture is complex, surgery may be necessary to realign the bones and stabilize the foot. Surgical options include:

• Internal Fixation: Metal pins, screws, or plates may be used to hold the fractured bone in place while it heals.
  
  
• Bone Grafting: If the fracture has caused bone loss, bone grafting may be used to stimulate healing and support the fracture site.
  
  

4. Custom Orthotics and Footwear

Once the fracture has healed, custom orthotics and properly fitting footwear are essential for preventing further injury. Custom orthotics can provide the necessary arch support and cushioning to distribute pressure evenly across the foot, helping to avoid future fractures or discomfort.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery time for a metatarsal fracture can vary based on the severity of the injury. Minor fractures may take 6-8 weeks to heal, while more complex fractures may require 8-12 weeks or longer. During recovery, physical therapy can help restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion to the foot and ankle, preventing stiffness and improving overall function.

Preventing Metatarsal Fractures

While some fractures are unavoidable, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk:

• Wear supportive footwear that provides cushioning and stability for the foot.
  
  
• Warm-up properly before engaging in physical activities, especially high-impact sports or running.
  
  
• Gradually increase physical activity to avoid overuse injuries and stress fractures.
  
  
• Maintain bone health by consuming a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to promote strong bones.
  
  

If you’re experiencing foot pain, suspect a fracture, or have recently injured your foot, don’t wait to seek professional treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly reduce recovery time and prevent complications. Contact Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists of Arizona today at (480) 963-9000 or book an appointment online for expert care and treatment options for your metatarsal fracture.