injuries and poisoning
Metatarsal Fractures
Stress Fractures of the Metatarsals
Stress fractures are incomplete breaks in the bone caused by repeated stress rather than a single injury. Walking or running for a long time can result in a stress fracture of the metatarsal. These fractures cause tenderness in the middle of the foot and pain when full weight is put on the foot. Stress fractures may not be visible on x-rays for 2 to 3 weeks after the injury, so doctors sometimes do computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging, or they may treat the foot as if it is fractured and repeat x-rays in 2 weeks. Usually, stopping activities that caused or aggravate the fracture and using crutches are the only treatment needed. Stress Fractures of the Foot of the metatarsals can occur when people walk or run a long time, as when they suddenly start exercising longer or more intensely. Stress fractures of the metatarsal bones are tender to the touch. Putting full weight on the foot increases the pain. X-rays Sometimes computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) Stress fractures may not be seen on x-rays if they are small or if the x-rays are taken soon after the fracture occurred (before the bone starts to repair itself). About 2 to 3 weeks after the injury, a stress fracture can be seen on x-rays as new bone is formed to repair the fracture (see How bones heal ). Sometimes CT or MRI is done to check for stress fractures. (See also Diagnosis .) Avoidance of activities that caused or aggravate the stress fracture Crutches Sometimes a protective shoe or boot or a cast When a developing stress fracture is recognized early, stopping activities that caused or aggravate the fracture and using crutches may be the only treatment necessary. People may need to wear a special protective walking shoe or boot. Sometimes a cast is necessary. 