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

These fractures typically are treated without surgery using a cast, boot, or hard-soled shoe and tend to heal within 6-8 weeks.

Can you put weight on 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.

When can I run after metatarsal fracture?

If there is pain, they again wear the boot for one week at a time and the process continues until running can resume. When running resumes, I allow patients no speed workouts such as interval running or tempo workouts until they can run pain-free for two to four weeks.

How do you sleep with a broken metatarsal?

Keep your leg elevated to reduce pain and swelling. When sleeping, put a pillow under the injured leg. When sitting, support the injured leg so it’s above your heart. This is very important during the first 2 days (48 hours).

What exercise can I do with a metatarsal stress fracture?

This may include some or all of the following activities, but be sure to check with your doctor first!

Swimming.
Water aerobics.
Cycling.
Rowing (and other seated resistance exercises that don’t use the feet)
Pull-ups.
Yoga (not all poses may be appropriate, but those that don’t load the injured foot should be fine)

How do you fix a broken metatarsal?

Treatment of Metatarsal Fractures

Rest. Sometimes rest is the only treatment needed to promote healing of a stress or traumatic fracture of a metatarsal bone.
Avoid the offending activity.
Immobilization, casting or rigid shoe.
Surgery.
Follow-up care.

Does a broken metatarsal need a cast?

The the long bones in your foot are called metatarsals. They are numbered from 1 to 5. This fracture is at the base of the 5th metatarsal, which is where the name comes from. The break has occurred in a part of the bone that normally heals without a problem, so you won’t need to have a plaster cast.

Is it OK to walk on a fractured foot?

You may walk on the foot as comfort allows but you may find it easier to walk on your heel in the early stages. The boot you have been given is for your comfort only and is not needed to aid fracture healing but will help to settle your symptoms.

How do you treat a fractured 5th metatarsal?

Treatment for a fifth metatarsal fracture

Cold therapy. Putting ice on the area may reduce swelling and pain, especially in the first few days after injury.
Elevation.
Prescription or over-the-counter pain medicines.
Immobilization.
Stretching and strengthening exercises.
Surgery.

What does a broken 5th metatarsal feel like?

Symptoms of a fifth metatarsal fracture Sudden pain along the outside of your foot is the main symptom. A stress fracture may develop more slowly. You may feel chronic pain for a period of time. Your foot may also swell up and bruise.

How long should you wear a moon boot?

Bear in mind that the moon boot wearing is a short term process (eg up to 6 weeks usually) and is necessary for proper healing. Your Podiatrist can assist you with shoe advice and in shoe wedges to even you up and be more comfortable wearing the boot.

Is it legal to drive with a moon boot?

Yes and no, as it’s not specifically illegal to drive with a broken leg or foot, but if a doctor advises you not to drive then you legally cannot get behind the wheel. This is because you need to maintain full articulation of your feet, ankles, and legs, to safely control the car through the pedals.

Can you walk with a moon boot?

Will I walk differently in a moon boot? Simply put, yes. Moon boots will take a little getting used to, and they will feel very different, but this is exactly what we’d expect with any device that offers significant offloading to one foot.

Do I need to wear a boot for a broken toe?

Casting a broken toe A cast usually is not required for a simple toe fracture. A hard-soled, sturdy, and supportive shoe or boot should be worn. A doctor may give the patient a special shoe to wear if the foot or toes are very swollen.