A fifth metatarsal fracture is also known as a “Jones fracture”. This injury is common, especially among athletes and dancers. It can restrict mobility for a long time. Therefore, patients often question, “What is the fastest way to heal a 5th metatarsal fracture?” Let’s discuss.
What Is a 5th Metatarsal Fracture?
The fifth metatarsal is the long bone on the outer side of the foot that connects to the small toe. Fractures of this bone are common and can occur in different spots along the bone. Injuries to the foot and ankle, including stress fractures, can cause the fifth metatarsal to crack or break.
Types of 5th Metatarsal Fractures
Medical professionals divide the types of 5th metatarsal fractures into the following three zones:
- Zone 1 (Avulsion Fracture): These make up 93% of all fifth metatarsal fractures. In an avulsion fracture, a small piece of bone is pulled off the main bone. This often happens when your ankle rolls. Avulsion fractures can be overlooked if they happen with an ankle sprain.
- Zone 2 (Jones Fracture): Jones fractures occur in a small area of the fifth metatarsal that gets less blood, making it harder to heal. This type of fracture can be a stress fracture (a tiny break that happens over time) or a sudden break. Jones fractures happen due to overuse, repetitive stress, or trauma. They are less common and harder to treat than avulsion fractures.
- Zone 3 (Mid-Shaft Fracture or Dancer’s Fracture): These fractures usually result from trauma or twisting and occur at the middle part of the fifth metatarsal.
5th Metatarsal Fracture Treatment
The treatment for a 5th metatarsal fracture depends on the fracture’s severity and type. Some fractures heal with nonsurgical methods, while others need surgery. Orthopedic surgeons consider a patient’s age, activity level, and health when choosing the treatment.
- Immobilization
After an injury, use RICE (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) until you can see a doctor. For an avulsion fracture and sometimes a Jones fracture, the foot can be immobilized in a cast or boot. Crutches can be used to keep weight off the foot. This treatment usually lasts six to eight weeks. - Bone Stimulation
In some cases, a bone stimulator is used to speed up healing. This external device helps promote bone growth and is commonly used for Jones fractures but can also assist other treatments. - Surgery
If the bones are displaced or there are multiple breaks, surgery can be the best option. Elite athletes also opt for surgery. Surgery is common for mid-shaft or dancer’s fractures and for Jones fractures if immobilization doesn’t work. The surgery involves inserting a pin, screw, rod, or plate to hold the bone in place.
Which One is the Fastest Way to Heal a 5th Metatarsal Fracture?
Surgical fixation usually allows for earlier weight-bearing and rehabilitation than just immobilization. Most patients can resume full activities, including sports, within 3-4 months after surgery for a 5th metatarsal fracture.
However, for nondisplaced fractures and certain avulsion fractures (Zone 1), non-surgical treatment with a cast or boot for 6-8 weeks can be effective. The key is identifying the specific type and severity of the fracture to choose the best treatment approach.
Wrapping Up
If you are an athlete, an injury like a Jones fracture can be normal. However, the immobilization caused by these injuries can be bothersome. Therefore, many athletes are interested in knowing, “What is the fastest way to heal a 5th metatarsal fracture?” Surgical fixation works the fastest among the mentioned treatments.
Visit Dr. Gombera at Mufaddal Gombera, MD. Our board-certified orthopedic surgeon is skilled in numerous surgical and nonsurgical treatments for sports injuries. Call us at (713) 794-3457 to schedule an appointment.
