How long does it take for fractured metatarsals 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.
What is the treatment for metatarsal fracture?
A stiff-soled shoe or other form of immobilization may be used to protect the fractured bone while it is healing. Use of a postoperative shoe or bootwalker is also helpful. Surgery. Some traumatic fractures of the metatarsal bones require surgery, especially if the break is badly displaced.
Can you still walk with a metatarsal fracture?
You can walk on your injured foot as much as your pain allows. You should gradually stop using the supportive shoe over three to five weeks, as your pain settles. Most base of 5th metatarsal injuries heal without any problems. However, it may take several months for your symptoms to settle completely.
How long does it take for a fractured fifth metatarsal bone to heal?
How long does a fractured 5th metatarsal take to heal? A 5th metatarsal fracture often heals in six to eight weeks, whether treated by immobilization or through surgery. Weight-bearing activities are significantly reduced for six weeks following surgery.
How long do you wear a boot for a metatarsal fracture?
Your treatment plan
You will be given a removable boot to wear to support your foot; this should be used for two to six weeks to enable you to walk more comfortably whilst the injury heals. You only need to wear this when standing or walking, you can remove it at rest, at night and when bathing or showering.
Can you move your toes with a metatarsal fracture?
Acute metatarsal fracture
Broken bones bleed, so bruising and swelling can develop and you may have difficulty putting weight on the affected foot. Movement of your foot may also be limited.
Does a fractured metatarsal need a cast?
Most metatarsal fractures can be treated without surgery. A stiff soled shoe, walking boot, or even a cast may be used. The amount of pressure you are able to put on your foot will depend on which bones are broken. Your treating physician will decide this.
Can a metatarsal fracture heal without a boot?
A 5th Metatarsal Fracture is unlikely to heal without a cast or walker boot as the impact and vibration from walking can irritate the fracture site, preventing it from healing.
What is the fastest way to heal a 5th metatarsal fracture?
You can improve your recovery time by:
- Elevating your foot while seated.
- Icing your foot for 20 minutes a day as needed, after your injury and before treatment.
- Keeping weight off your foot for the time recommended by your provider.
- Quitting smoking and/or using tobacco products which can help speed your healing time.
Do you need a boot for a 5th metatarsal fracture?
There are five metatarsal bones in each foot, you have fractured the fifth which is on the outer edge of the foot. This is a common fracture. You will be given a removable boot to wear to support your foot; this should be used for two to six weeks to enable you to walk more comfortably whilst the injury heals.
Should I wear my walking boot all day?
If supplied, wear the boot for comfort and use crutches when walking. It is ok to take the boot off at night, when resting at home and to wash.
When can you start walking after a metatarsal fracture?
As you recover, your provider will instruct you to begin moving your foot. This may be as soon as 3 weeks or as long 8 weeks after your injury.
Will a broken 5th metatarsal heal if I walk on it?
Do I need crutches with a walking boot?
The short answer is no: You don’t need crutches with a walking boot. While you shouldn’t generally put weight on a walking boot, other mobility aids can be used instead of crutches to prevent this from occurring. These include wheelchairs, canes, walkers, and others.
When do you stop using a walking boot?
Orthopedic boots protect broken bones and other injuries of the lower leg, ankle, or foot. They prevent more damage and help the area heal. Your doctor may have you use a boot for 1 to 6 weeks.
How long do you have to wear a boot for a broken metatarsal?
Do you need a boot for 5th metatarsal fracture?
How far can I walk in a walking boot?
Walking boots can be either tall or short. The tall version can extend as far as the knee while the short boot may perhaps only reach halfway between the foot and knee.
How many hours a day should you wear a walking boot?
DO wear your sock and boot any time you are on your feet. DO spend about 2 to -3 hours each day with your ankle elevated above the level of your heart.
Do you still need crutches with a walking boot?