More Than an Ankle Sprain? Learn About Jones Fractures with Your Podiatrist.
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.
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 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 foot and ankle specialist to ensure the swiftest possible recovery time with long term success.
What Causes This Type of Fracture?
Jones fractures are caused by overuse and sudden foot 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 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.
Jones Fractures Most Common Symptoms
If you experience the telltale symptoms of a Jones fracture, you’ll need to visit your podiatrist 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 can perform a complete physical examination and use X-Ray imaging to determine the exact nature and extent of your injury.
Jones Fractures Treatment Options
Dr. 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 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.
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.
