Did you know that a condition called ‘Jones fracture’ includes around 59 to 68% of all metatarsal fractures? It is common in athletes, especially males. This fracture occurs when a sudden force is applied to the foot, which twists the foot away from the body. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications. The earlier you notice the symptoms and take treatment, the faster you recover. Learn about Jones fracture causes, symptoms, and treatment options in this article. Get a consultation with the best Podiatrists in Brooklyn.
What is a Jones fracture?
When your fifth metatarsal bone (the bone that connects your pinkie to the base of your foot) is broken, it is called a Jones Fracture.
Jones fractures are the result of a sudden force being applied to the outside of the foot when the foot is twisted away from the body, causing the foot to break. The most prevalent causes of Jones fractures include overuse, sports injuries, and falls. Increasing your training, gaining weight, or running on uneven surfaces can all increase the risk of this fracture.
Repairing your bone can require surgery. A Jones fracture usually requires a few months of recovery time. To heal your bone, you may need surgery. The healing process will take three to four months.
Symptoms
If you have a Jones fracture, you will experience any of the following:
- Pain is one of the most common symptoms of a fractured ankle.
- Swelling.
- Tenderness.
- It’s hard to walk as easily as you used to.
- Discoloration or bruising.
Causes
- A sudden hit to your foot while it is twisted, usually with your heel raised, results in a Jones fracture.
- If you walk, run, or stand on a hard surface for a long time, you could hurt yourself.
- Sports-related injuries: jumping or twisting quickly, such as in basketball or football.
- Tripping on the stairwell or catching yourself mid-fall after slipping on a slick floor are two common types of slips and falls.
How common are Jones Fractures?
As far as foot fractures go, Jones fractures are right up there among the most prevalent. Athletes, dancers, and those who work in industries that demand them to be constantly on their feet are more likely to suffer from foot pain.
- A Jones fracture can happen to anyone, like other bone fractures.
- Most people don’t put their feet through as much stress as those at risk of a Jones fracture do, which include:
- Dancers.
- Athletes.
- Workers who spend the majority of their time on their feet.
- Jones fractures are more common in men and women over the age of 30 and over the age of 70.
- An increased chance of shattered bones, such as Jones fractures, is associated with osteoporosis.
Diagnosis
To diagnose a Jones fracture, the doctor performs a physical exam and reviews your medical history. To confirm the suspicion, the doctor recommended some other tests, such as:
- X-ray: This imaging test is used to produce images that will reveal the extent of the damage.
- MRI: Your doctor may use a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan to provide an accurate picture of the extent of bone loss, as well as the surrounding soft tissue. They’ll be able to see the tissue surrounding your bones as well.
- CT scan: If you require surgery, your doctor will need to know exactly how damaged your bones are through a CT scan. To get an accurate view of your bones and surrounding tissue, they’ll need a CT scan.
What is the Treatment for Jones fractures?
The degree of the original break determines how your Jones fracture is treated. Your fractured bones must be reintegrated. There are a variety of treatment options available, all of which depend on the extent of the damage and the reason for the breakage. Common treatment options for Jones fractures are:
Immobilization
Depending on the severity of your break and how much the bones were jostled out of place, you may merely require a cast or boot. Wear them for six to eight weeks on average. In both cases, you might need X-rays to make sure that your bones are healing properly.
Closed Reduction with Internal Fixation
Your bones will need to be set (realigned) with a closed reduction for more severe breaks. Your healthcare professional will use physical pressure and pulling on the exterior of your body to align your broken bones on the inside during this non-surgical process. You can choose from the following options to ease any pain you might feel during the procedure:
- Your fracture will be numbed with local anesthesia.
- Alternatively, you’ll be put to sleep with a general anesthetic during the treatment.
- Your doctor will put you in a cast or boot after the closed reduction procedure.
A Jones Fracture is a common type of broken bone, which occurs when sudden force is applied to the foot or when twisting. It can cause pain, swelling, and bruises, which can make walking difficult. So, make sure you don’t ignore the symptoms and seek medical help. To treat the fracture, surgery is recommended. Your surgery options depend on how much of your bone is broken. This also affects your recovery time.
So, if you have constant pain in your foot, especially when you walk, then visit Doral Health & Wellness Podiatry to get professional medical help. At Doral Health & Wellness, we have Podiatrists with extensive education and expertise. If you’re ready to take the next step in managing your pain, we recommend consulting with our healthcare provider to explore the right treatments or therapies for you. Always listen to your body and adjust your daily routine to prioritize your well-being. Trauma to the tendons, muscles, and bones of the foot is quite common. It’s not a good idea to put off seeing Foot Doctor Brooklyn until you are in a lot of pain. Our address is 1797 Pitkin Avenue, New York, NY 11212. To make an appointment, please call + 1 718 367 2555 or send an email to info@doralhw.org.
