What is a metatarsal shaft fracture?
Metatarsal shaft fractures are common injuries, and cause pain and swelling in the mid and forefoot. They are typically caused by a trauma, such as the drop of a heavy object on the foot, or the sudden bend of the forefoot (i.e. a trip and fall on uneven ground).
How long does it take for a metatarsal bone fracture to heal?
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 shaft of the foot?
The base is the part closest to the ankle and the head is closest to the toes. The narrowed part in the middle is referred to as the body (or shaft) of the bone. The bone is somewhat flat giving it two surfaces; the plantar (towards the sole of the foot) and the dorsal side (the area facing upwards while standing).
Can you still walk with a metatarsal fracture?
Depending on the type and severity of your injury, you may be able to walk on a broken metatarsal. Some people find they can’t tolerate any weight at all. Others can still walk, especially if it’s a mild fracture.
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.
Does a metatarsal fracture need surgery?
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.
What is the fastest way to heal a 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.
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.
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.
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.
How do I transition from walking boot to shoe?
Day 1 – Wear a good running shoe for 1-2 hours then return to your CAM Boot for the rest of the day. 2. Day 2 – Wear the shoe for 2-3 hours then return to your CAM Boot for the rest of the day.
What to expect after walking boot comes off?
After weeks of wearing a cast, your foot is likely to feel a little strange when it comes off. Apart from looking a bit pale and wrinkled, your foot may also be swollen and a bit stiff. But once the cast is off, your foot will feel lighter and easier to manoeuvre.
Do you need physical therapy after walking boot?
Were you immobilized in a cast or cam boot? Physical therapy will help to strengthen and stabilize your ankle joint after an injury, especially after a period of immobilization. You might notice when you are taken out of a cast or cam boot that your calf is significantly smaller compared to your other leg.
What can I use instead of a walking boot?
TayCo External Ankle Brace
Thankfully, there is now an alternative to the traditional walking boot. The TayCo External Ankle Brace is the only ankle brace that allows you to use your own footwear and orthotic, while providing the necessary ankle support. This lightweight alternative eliminates the limb imbalance with functional recovery.
Do you still need crutches with a walking boot?
Do I have to wear my walking boot all the time?
Walking 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 you wear it depends on how serious your injury is.
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.