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Learn About Jones Fractures with Your Podiatrist Boynton Beach

By Dr. Jason Gold, DPM, FACFAS | Dr. Jodi Schoenhaus DPM, RPhs, FACFAS

More Than an Ankle Sprain? Learn About Jones Fractures with Your Podiatrist Boynton Beach

The foot is one of the most complex biomechanical structures in the body. The foot and ankle are made up of 26 bones, 33 joints, and a combination of more than 100 muscles, ligaments, and tendons.

Injuries in the foot can likewise be complex. Sometimes, you could mistake a bone injury for a simple sprain. Jones fractures are notorious for being misdiagnosed without the expertise of a podiatrist Boynton Beach.

If you’re suffering from pain in the foot that you believe to be a sprain, it could actually be a fracture. Here’s what you need to know, and when to seek treatment with your Boynton Beach foot doctor.

What is a Jones Fracture?

A Jones fracture occurs at the base of the fifth metatarsal bone. This bone is subject to intense stress, especially in people who are overweight or highly active. With its position in the midfoot, this area receives less blood flow than surrounding areas, which can make the healing process difficult.

Injuries must be treated by a Podiatrist Boynton Beach to ensure the swiftest possible recovery time with long term success.

What Causes This Type of Fracture?

Xray of Heel Spurs

Jones fractures are caused by overuse and sudden trauma. Simply walking, jumping, and running could lead to this type of injury in your foot. If you have a high arch, you will be at higher risk. If you regularly exercise, or if you are engaged in running sports at any level, your risk is also higher.

Sudden trauma from inward twisting of the foot can also lead to a fracture.

It’s critical to note that Jones fractures can reoccur. Your podiatrist Boynton Beach will give you detailed instructions for recovery, and there will be a period where your foot shouldn’t bear weight. Even walking occasionally during the critical recovery period could lead to reoccurrence.

The Most Common Symptoms

If you experience the telltale symptoms of a Jones fracture, you’ll need to visit your podiatrist Boynton Beach for diagnosis. Some athletes mistake these fractures as simple ankle sprains. Call your doctor immediately if you are experiencing pain or any of the symptoms listed below. Ignoring a Jones fracture could lead to long-term complications requiring extensive rehabilitation.

Common symptoms include:

  • A feeling of pressure or tenderness on the outside of the midfoot when walking.
  • Bruising around the midfoot.
  • Difficulty or pain when standing, walking, running, etc.
  • A persistent ache and general pain around the midfoot.

Don’t ignore the symptoms. Your podiatrist Boynton Beach can perform a complete physical examination and use X-Ray imaging to determine the exact nature and extent of your injury.

Treatment Options With Your Podiatrist Boynton Beach

Podiatrist Boynton BeachDr. Jason Gold has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating Jones fractures. Basic treatment includes:

  • RICE (Rest, Icing, Compression, and Elevation): The RICE method helps the injury to heal while you rest. Your podiatrist will advise on how often you need to ice and elevate. A compression bandage will be worn throughout the day and when resting.
  • Immobilization: Special boots, shoes, or even casts are sometimes used to immobilize the foot when healing a Jones fracture.
  • Medication: Swelling can cause pain and slow the healing process. Anti-inflammatory medications are often prescribed to help treat Jones fractures.
  • Surgery: Your podiatrist Boynton Beach may recommend surgery for a variety of reasons. If you’re an athlete or otherwise physically active, the likelihood of reoccurrence will be high. Poor blood flow in the midfoot can delay healing. Surgery involves the use of fixation techniques, including the installation of plates and screws into the fifth metatarsal bone. Bone grafts may also be necessary.

Your treatment options will be discussed in depth at the Foot, Ankle & Leg Vein Center in Boynton Beach.

If you are suffering from foot pain, it could be more than a sprain or simple tissue injury. Don’t take your foot health for granted. Contact us now to schedule a consultation and enjoy the confidence that comes from the best podiatrist Boynton Beach.

 

 

Dr. Jason Gold, DPM, FACFAS

Known for his expertise in thorough diagnostic testing and a steady surgical hand, Jason M. Gold, DPM, is a leader in modern foot and ankle care and sports medicine. He’s one of a handful of doctors who’s board certified in foot and ankle surgery in Palm Beach County. Dr. Jason Gold cares for patients at Foot, Ankle & Leg Vein Center, a state-of-the-art practice with locations in Boca Raton and Boynton, Florida.

Dr. Jodi Schoenhaus , DPM - Podiatrist in Boca Raton, FL

Dr. Jodi Schoenhaus DPM, RPhs, FACFAS

Dr. Jodi Schoenhaus is a foot, ankle, and leg vein specialist practicing in South Florida. She is considered a leader and innovator for various procedures in her field, including fat pad and vein care. Dr. Schoenhaus grew up in southern New Jersey and she considers herself a true Philly girl. After graduating from the University of Michigan, having studied kinesiology and human movement, she went to Temple University in Philadelphia where she got her doctorate.

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