The metatarsal bones are the long bones within the foot that connect the tarsal bones to the toes. Stress fractures of the metarsals are common in military recruits, dancers and athletes. A stress fracture is a small fracture that is often not seen on an X-ray. These fractures usually occur after a sudden increase in activity, and result from overuse. Treatment depends on which metatarsal is fractured and where the fracture is on the bone, and includes rest from activity, a short leg walking boot or post-op shoe, a cast with crutches and even surgery for special fractures.
Pain
The most important symptom is pain. The pain from a metatarsal stress fracture is located in the middle or end portions of the foot. Pain is often pinpointed right over the fracture, but may spread to a more generalized area of the foot. Often the pain is only with running, jumping or dancing, but it can worsen until you have pain with walking or even at rest. Touching or squeezing the fractured bone is also painful.
Swelling
Swelling is often present with a metatarsal stress fracture. The swelling is along the top of the foot and is tender to the touch. Sometimes the swelling makes it difficult to wear shoes.
Bruising
Bruising results when blood vessels rupture or tear with an injury, resulting in bleeding within the structures of the foot. Bruising can be seen along the foot or toes, but it is not a common symptom with stress fractures. Bruising is usually a sign that something else is going on, such as a torn ligament within the foot.
References
- "DeLee and Drez's Orthorpaedic Sports Medicine, 3rd Edition"; 2009
- "The Sport Medicine Resource Manual"; 2008
