If left untreated, fractures of the central metatarsals may lead to arthritis, chronic pain, and changes in foot structure, which may lead to instability. Your foot and ankle surgeon is an expert in correctly identifying these conditions as well as other problems of the foot. It is often misdiagnosed as an ankle sprain, and misdiagnosis can have serious consequences since sprains and fractures require different treatments. Since the big toe is used so frequently and bears more weight than other toes, arthritis in that area can make it painful to walk, bend, or even stand.Īnother type of break, called a Jones fracture, occurs at the base of the fifth metatarsal bone (behind the little toe). Certain kinds of fractures of the metatarsal bones present unique challenges. For example, sometimes a fracture of the first metatarsal bone (behind the big toe) can lead to arthritis. Treatment of Metatarsal Fractures in Orange Countyīreaks in the metatarsal bones may be either stress or traumatic fractures. Non-union, or failure to heal, can lead to subsequent surgery or chronic pain. For example:Ī deformity in the bony architecture which may limit the ability to move the foot or cause difficulty in fitting shoesĪrthritis, which may be caused by a fracture in a joint (the juncture where two bones meet), or may be a result of angular deformities that develop when a displaced fracture is severe or hasn’t been properly corrected In fact, if a fractured metatarsal bone is not treated correctly, serious complications may develop. Some people say that “the doctor can’t do anything for a broken bone in the foot.” This is usually not true. “Pinpoint pain” (pain at the site of the fracture) when touched Pain that goes away when resting and then returns when standing or during activity Symptoms of stress fractures in Orange County include: They require proper medical attention to heal correctly. Improper footwear may also lead to stress fractures. They can also be caused by an abnormal foot structure, deformities, or osteoporosis. Stress fractures often afflict athletes who, for example, too rapidly increase their running mileage. Stress fractures are tiny, hairline breaks that are usually caused by repetitive stress. It is not true that “if you can walk on it, it’s not broken.” Evaluation by a foot and ankle surgeon is always recommended.
“Pinpoint pain” (pain at the place of impact) at the time the fracture occurs and perhaps for a few hours later, but often the pain goes away after several hours.Ĭrooked or abnormal appearance of the toes or foot. You may hear a sound at the time of the break. Signs and symptoms of a traumatic fracture in Orange County include: If the fracture is displaced, the bone is broken in such a way that it has changed in position (dislocated). Traumatic fractures can be displaced or non-displaced. Traumatic fractures (also called acute fractures) are caused by a direct blow or impact, such as dropping a heavy object on your foot. Fractures can be divided into two categories: traumatic fractures and stress fractures. What Is a Foot Fracture in Orange County?Ī fracture is a break in the bone. Our Orange County Foot and Ankle Surgeon should be seen for proper diagnosis and treatment, even if initial treatment has been received in an emergency room. Metatarsal fractures are very common and require evaluation by a specialist. Of the 26 bones in the foot, 19 are toe bones (phalanges) or metatarsal bones (the long bones in the midfoot). The structure of the foot is complex, consisting of bones, muscles, tendons, and other soft tissues.
Our Orange County Podiatrist / Foot and Ankle Surgeon can evaluate and treat your metatarsal / foot fracture at our Irvine, CA, Huntington Beach, CA or Orange, CA offices. Metatarsal / Foot Fracture in Orange County
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