What is Metatarsal Fracture Treatment?
Metatarsal fractures involve the long bones behind the toes. Care depends on fracture location and stability:
- Conservative: Stiff‑soled shoe or boot, limited weight-bearing, and serial X‑rays.
- Reduction and casting: If alignment needs correction.
- Surgery (ORIF): Plates/screws or pins for displaced, multiple, or Jones fractures.
Treatment is individualized to promote healing and early safe return to activity.
What to expect after Metatarsal Fracture Treatment?
- Boot or cast with restricted weight-bearing for 4–6 weeks
- Elevation to reduce swelling during first 1–2 weeks
- Gradual increase in activity as X‑rays show healing
- Physical therapy for strength and balance when appropriate
- Shoe inserts or stiff soles during transition back to normal footwear
- Typical healing time 6–8 weeks (varies by bone and fracture type)
- Call for severe pain, numbness, or color changes in toes
