Stress fracture of metatarsals
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
Stress fracture of metatarsal bones is possible as a result of repeated stress effects when lifting weight.
Stress fracture does not occur as a result of a single injury (eg, fall, stroke), but occurs as a result of a repeated load. Stress fracture of metatarsal bones (march stop) usually occurs in runners and patients with poor physical fitness who go for long distances and suffer heavy loads (for example, soldiers on a regular basis). Stress fracture occurs usually in the II metatarsal bone. The risk factors include a hollow foot (high arch), shoes with insufficient damping qualities and osteoporosis. These fractures can also be a sign of the female athletic triad (amenorrhea, eating disorders and osteoporosis).
[Symptoms of stress fracture of metatarsal bones
The pain in the foot, which occurs after prolonged intensive work, then quickly disappears at rest, serves as a typical initial sign. With the subsequent exercises, the pain intensifies, it appears earlier and can become so strong that the exercise of the exercise becomes impossible. Pain continues even when the patient does not lift the weight.
Diagnosis of stress fracture of metatarsal bones
Recommend the implementation of standard radiographs, which can not detect anything and after 2-3 weeks after injury. Often for the final diagnosis, a bone scan with a technetium diphosphonate is required. In women with a recurrent stress fracture, osteoporosis may develop, and in this case they should perform two-energy X-ray absorptiometry.
How to examine?
Treatment of stress fracture of metatarsal bones
Treatment consists in unloading a sick leg with crutches and a wooden "horseshoe" (or any other unloading devices or shoes). The need for a plaster bandage is rare. A gypsum dressing should not be kept for more than 1-2 weeks, it can cause a significant atrophy of the muscles and slow the rehabilitation. Recovery usually takes 3-12 weeks.