Metatarsal Stress Fracture

Metatarsal Stress Fracture Treatment in St. Louis, MO

Find Relief from Metatarsal Stress Fractures

Excessive stress on ball of the foot can cause small cracks (fractures) in one of the long metatarsal bones. This often affects the second, third, or fourth metatarsal, but any bones can sustain an injury. Usually, the fracture is so subtle, and you may not remember a specific cause.

These fractures were once called “March Fractures” because soldiers frequently developed foot pain after long marches. Stress fractures of the foot can occur in athletes, overweight individuals, and those with weak bones, like osteoporosis sufferers.

If you have symptoms of a Metatarsal Stress Fracture, contact your local foot and ankle doctor in St. Louis at Missouri Foot & Ankle. We can help!

Symptoms of a Metatarsal Stress Fracture

Knowing the signs and symptoms of a metatarsal stress fracture early can help prevent the injury from worsening. Unlike acute fractures, which result from sudden impact, stress fractures develop gradually over time and with repeated pressure.

While symptoms may start subtly, they tend to intensify as time passes. Watch for typical signs such as the following:

• Gradual pain: A dull or aching pain often arises during physical activity and can initially subside with rest. However, it can become more persistent over time.
• Tenderness: Pressing on the affected bone may cause discomfort, particularly on the top of the foot.
• Swelling: Mild to moderate swelling may occur surrounding the fracture.
• Bruising or discoloration: Some people may experience slight bruising around the affected area.
• Pain that worsens with activity: Physical activity, such as walking, running, or standing for prolonged periods, can aggravate the injury.
• Difficulty bearing weight: In more severe cases, stepping with the foot may be painful, making it difficult to walk normally.

If you experience any of the common symptoms, reduce weight-bearing activities and seek medical attention from our St. Louis podiatrists to ensure proper healing.

Symptoms of a Metatarsal Stress Fracture

A typical presentation for someone with a metatarsal stress fracture would be pain and swelling in the ball of the foot, which is most severe in the push-off phase of walking. Pressing on the bones in this area of the foot will reproduce the pain. X-rays taken during the first two to three weeks after the injury often will not show any fracture. A bone scan at this stage will be much more sensitive in diagnosing the early stress fracture. The decision to order a bone scan will be up to your doctor. Often times the diagnosis can be made based upon clinical findings, thus making the bone scan unnecessary. After several weeks, an x-ray will show the signs of new bone healing in the area of the stress fracture.

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Who is Most at Risk? 

Identifying the risk factors of metatarsal stress fractures can help with early detection and prevention. If you identify with any of the below and are currently experiencing foot pain, schedule an appointment with us today.

• Athletes & Active Individuals: High-impact sports, such as running, ballet, and basketball, place repetitive stress on the foot.
• High or Flat Arches: Foot structure plays a role, as those with high arches or flat feet may have uneven pressure distribution and be more prone to fractures.
• Bone Health: Conditions like osteoporosis weaken bones, making them more vulnerable to fractures.
• Sudden Activity Changes: A sudden increase in physical activity intensity, such as starting a new exercise routine too quickly, can lead to injury.

Metatarsal Stress Fracture Diagnosis

A metatarsal stress fracture typically causes pain and swelling in the ball of the foot. The pain is most severe on the injured, weight-bearing foot when pushing off during walking.

X-rays taken within the first two to three weeks following the injury may not show a fracture. At this stage, a bone scan is more effective.

Your doctor will decide whether you need a bone scan. Often, they can diagnose based on clinical findings, making the scan unnecessary. After several weeks, an x-ray will show signs of bone healing around the fracture.

Expert Metatarsal Stress Fracture Treatment in St. Louis, MO

Treatment for metatarsal stress fractures usually starts with rest, elevation, and ice. A compression bandage may help reduce swelling. Wooden-soled shoes also help prevent pressure on the ball of the foot, allowing time for proper healing.

In some cases, a short leg-walking cast may be effective for a brief period. Healing typically takes 4 to 8 weeks. After healing, it’s essential to use a well-padded insole or a custom orthotic to reduce the stress on the area. Those with osteoporosis should get a bone density test and start treatment to prevent another injury and further bone weakening.

For expert care and treatment from a professional podiatrist in St. Louis, contact Missouri Foot & Ankle today!

Frequently Asked Questions

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

In most cases, metatarsal stress fractures health within 4 to 8 weeks. However, recovery times can vary based on the severity and how well your foot is protected during healing.

Rest, reduced weight-bearing, and proper footwear or casting can help you heal faster. However, it may take several months before you can fully return to high-impact activities, as it’s vital to ensure your bone is strong enough to handle stress again.

Can I continue exercising with a stress fracture?

We don’t recommend continuing weight-bearing exercises or high-impact activities if you have a stress fracture. Placing continued pressure on the injured foot can worsen the fracture and prolong the healing process. However, low-impact activities like swimming or cycling may be acceptable in some situations. Talk with your podiatrist first about safe alternatives.

What are the long-term effects if a stress fracture is left untreated?

Ignoring a metatarsal stress fracture can cause chronic pain, worsening fractures, and improper bone healing (called nonunion or malunion). In some situations, the fracture can fully break, requiring more extensive treatment, including surgery. Seek early treatment to ensure adequate healing and reduce the risk of long-term complications.