A fracture is characterized by pain, swelling and hematoma formation. It also results in a limited ability to bear weight. At the beginning, the metatarsal fracture is treated with a Vakoped shoe, which must be worn for about 4-6 weeks. If the foot is loaded too early and/or too much, the healing process is prolonged enormously.
Possible risks in case of too early exposure
If the foot is loaded again too early, a refracture may occur. The area that was already broken breaks open again or becomes even larger. In addition, the remaining swelling could increase, as could the pain.
A longer immobilization (immobilization) is the result without load. The healing process is enormously delayed and there may be recurring swelling and pain. The load limit is lowered and a complete healing of the injury is delayed by weeks.
In addition, incorrect loading and compensation become more frequent, so that complaints can develop in the ascending chain (knee, hip, pelvis, spine). Another fatigue fracture in the area of the metatarsus can also occur due to the incorrect loading. Developing anxiety, due to the worsening, can negatively influence the chronic condition. It is important to carry out gait training during the course of therapy so that the patient learns to roll off the foot correctly.
What do you need to consider now?
If the foot was loaded too early, it should be cooled immediately and the foot should be elevated to reduce the swelling and pain. A renewed examination by the doctor gives certainty about a possible injury. The doctor’s instructions should always be followed.
The strain on the foot must be reduced or avoided completely. If sport has been started too early or too much running has been done, it must be stopped. The calf pump should also be performed to support the lymph flow. Impatient patients can obtain leg strength by training the entire leg, excluding the foot, e.g. via the PNF diagonal. In general, however, the previous load is reduced to a minimum and the foot is allowed to heal completely.
