Metatarsal fracture claims
Metatarsals are bones in the mid-section of the foot and are numbered one to five, one being the metatarsal attached to the big toe.
The fifth metatarsal is attached to the little toe and is the most commonly fractured in football.
Types of injury
There are two types of fracture to the metatarsal:
- acute fractures - these are caused by some sudden force being placed on the bone such as dropping a heavy object on the foot or a sporting injury
- stress fractures - these are caused by wear and tear and overuse
Fractured metatarsal - symptoms and diagnosis
A broken metatarsal will result in eccymosis, swelling and pain - particularly when weight bearing.
Diagnosis can be confirmed by a simple x-ray.
Fractured metatarsal treatment
Initial treatment consists of the standard procedure of rest, ice, elevation and compression. All exercise or sport should be avoided for at least 4-8 weeks.
Treatment will often depend on the nature and location of the fracture. If the fracture is in the mid section of the metatarsal then immobilisation will normally result in the bone healing successfully. Difficulties can arise where the fracture is located in the area between the base and the shaft of the metatarsal. This is due to the relatively poor blood supply to that particular area of the bone and may result in increased recovery times or surgery. Surgery will involve the insertion of a pin or screw to facilitate recovery by holding the sections of affected bone together.
Fractured metatarsal prognosis
Recovery times vary widely with some people returning to sport within four weeks, whereas others may take a great deal longer - up to 30 weeks. In some cases it may be necessary to examine training methods and body mechanics to avoid further stress fractures.
Making a sports injury claim
For free, expert advice on making a sports injury claim, click here or call us free on 0800 0382 382. We are available to take your call twenty four hours a day, seven days a week.
If you want to provide some details to us in advance, why not let us assess your claim now.
