Foot pain can stop you in your tracks. Each painful step across your foot’s front could signal a metatarsal fracture. Pain from these injuries may prevent standing, running, or playing sports.
Recovery from metatarsal fractures is a key service at Perfect Balance Clinic. We guide you from diagnosis to recovery with structured support. Same-day appointments are often available – book your consultation today and start your recovery journey.
What Are Metatarsal Fractures?
Your foot’s five metatarsals connect the back and front of the foot. They help steady the foot while absorbing weight in movement.
A fracture happens when one of these bones breaks, either from sudden trauma (like twisting your foot or dropping something heavy on it) or from repetitive stress (common in runners and dancers).
Are Metatarsal Fractures Painful?
Yes, they usually are. Patients often describe:
- Sharp pain at the time of injury.
- Ongoing tenderness when pressing on the bone.
- The foot may show swelling on its sides or top.
- Standing is painful after a fracture.
- Activity increases pain from stress fractures, while rest helps.
If you recognise these signs, book an appointment with our Moorgate specialists for an accurate diagnosis and timely care.
Symptoms of Metatarsal Fractures
Common signs to look out for include:
- Pain across the middle or outer side of the foot.
- Swelling and bruising, especially near the toes.
- Trouble bearing weight.
- Visible deformity in severe breaks.
If these symptoms sound familiar, contact our Moorgate team today. Early assessment can protect you from future problems.
How Common Are Metatarsal Fractures?
Not all metatarsals break with equal frequency. The distribution is:
- First metatarsal: 5%
- Second metatarsal: 12%
- Third metatarsal: 14%
- Fourth metatarsal: 13%
- Fifth metatarsal: 56%
- Multiple metatarsal fractures: 15.6%
This makes the fifth metatarsal by far the most frequently fractured, especially in athletes and those with rolling ankle injuries.
Types of Metatarsal Fractures
Different types of breaks require different approaches:
- Stress fractures – fine cracks caused by overuse.
- Avulsion fractures – small bone pieces pulled off by tendons or ligaments.
- Displaced fractures – bones no longer aligned correctly.
- Non-displaced fractures – bone is broken but remains aligned.
- Multiple fractures – several metatarsals affected, often from high-impact trauma.
Fifth Metatarsal Fractures and Zones
The fifth metatarsal (the long bone on the outer edge of your foot) is one of the most frequently injured. These fractures are divided into three zones:
- Zone 1 (Avulsion fracture) – near the base, often from twisting injuries.
- Zone 2 (Jones fracture) – located at the junction of the base and shaft, with a higher risk of slow healing.
- Zone 3 (Stress fracture) – further down the shaft, often seen in athletes.
If you’ve been told you have a Jones fracture or ongoing pain on the outside of your foot, our team at Moorgate can support you with tailored treatment plans.
Causes and Risk Factors
Metatarsal fractures can result from many different scenarios, including:
- Twisting or rolling the foot during sport.
- Dropping heavy objects on the foot.
- Running brings constant loading on the foot.
- Bone strength falls due to osteoporosis.
- Poor footwear that lacks proper support.
- Falls from height or crush injuries.
- Supination injuries (turning the foot outward).
- Underlying health conditions such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis.
Sports and training often put these groups at higher risk. In children, the first metatarsal is often injured under the age of five, while the fifth metatarsal is more common in older children.
Diagnosis
At Perfect Balance Clinic, diagnosis starts with a detailed assessment. Imaging is arranged by our Moorgate team if there’s any doubt about the fracture type. Investigations may include:
- X-rays – the standard tool to see bone breaks.
- MRI scans – useful for stress fractures not visible on X-ray.
- CT scans – sometimes required for complex or multiple fractures.
Ottawa Foot Rules: Do You Need an X-ray?
If you’re unsure whether your foot injury needs an X-ray, the Ottawa test can help determine risk. You may require an X-ray if:
- There is bone tenderness at the base of the fifth metatarsal.
- There is bone tenderness at the navicular bone.
- You are unable to bear weight both immediately after the injury and for four steps in the clinic or emergency setting.
Stop hoping it will heal—check it properly. If you suspect a fracture, book an assessment at Moorgate today for clear answers and peace of mind.
Treatment Options at Perfect Balance Clinic
Your treatment plan depends on the fracture type and your lifestyle goals.
Conservative Care
- Rest and reduced weight-bearing in the early weeks.
- Supportive boots, casts, or stiff-soled shoes.
- Ice and elevation to control swelling.
- Safe pain relief methods where appropriate.
Rehabilitation
- Physiotherapy – restoring mobility and strength gradually.
- Sports therapy – tailored drills for athletes or dancers returning to training.
- Gait analysis – assessing walking mechanics to prevent re-injury.
Advanced Therapies
- Shockwave therapy – stimulates healing for stubborn or delayed fractures.
- Laser therapy – reduces pain and swelling during recovery.
Surgery
Displaced fractures can often mean surgical treatment. Metal supports like screws may be used to stabilise the bone.
Recovery Timeline
Healing times vary:
- Simple non-displaced fractures: 6–8 weeks.
- Stress fractures: 8–12 weeks, depending on severity.
- Jones fractures: often 3–4 months due to slower healing.
Rehab ensures strength returns after healing. Without it, you may face stiffness, weakness, or a higher chance of future injury.
How Perfect Balance Clinic Can Help
At our London Clinics, we provide:
- Accurate diagnosis of fracture type and severity.
- Clear treatment pathways tailored to your needs.
- Structured rehabilitation with physiotherapists and sports therapists.
- Preventive support such as gait scans, footwear advice, and bone health checks.
At Perfect Balance, we guide athletes, dancers, and anyone wanting pain-free steps.
Patient Feedback Matters
Others’ journeys show recovery is possible. That’s why we share genuine reviews from patients who have trusted our Moorgate clinic. Their stories highlight not only the care they received but also the results they achieved — from reduced pain to full return to sport.
Moving Forward with Confidence
Metatarsal breaks don’t have to stop you forever. At Perfect Balance, we cover every stage of your care. Don’t let foot pain slow you down. Book your consultation today and take the first step towards a confident recovery.
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Perfect Balance Clinic at Moorgate, Richmond and St. John’s Wood
