A Jones fracture is a break or a thin (hairline) crack in the fifth metatarsal bone. This is the long bone on the outside of the foot. The break occurs near the end of this bone that's closest to the ankle.
This type of fracture can happen when a person jumps or changes direction quickly and twists the foot or ankle the wrong way. Or it can happen from repeated stress on the bones of the foot.
Treatment depends on how bad the fracture is. You may or may not have had surgery. Your doctor may have put your foot in a cast to keep it stable. A splint may be used in some cases if there is a lot of swelling. You may have been given crutches to use to keep weight off your foot. Your doctor may recommend that you keep weight off the foot for several weeks.
The fracture may take 6 weeks to several months to heal. It is important to give your foot time to heal completely so that you don't hurt it again. Do not return to your usual activities until your doctor says you can. Your doctor may suggest that you get physical therapy to help regain strength and range of motion in your foot.
If you have a Jones fracture, the outer side of your foot may be painful, swollen, and tender. Your foot may look bruised, and you may have trouble walking.
For a small fracture, a doctor may recommend home care, such as rest and ice. You may wear a cast or a splint or use crutches. It's important to give your foot time to heal. This may take 6 weeks or longer. For some fractures, surgery is needed.
The doctor will examine your foot and ask about your symptoms and past health. The doctor will probably do an X-ray to confirm the fracture.
A Jones fracture can happen when a person jumps or changes direction quickly and twists the foot or ankle the wrong way. Or it can happen because of repeated stress on the bones of the foot.
A Jones fracture is a break or a thin (hairline) crack in the fifth metatarsal, the long bone on the outside of the foot. A Jones fracture occurs near the end of this bone that's closest to the ankle.
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