A metatarsal fracture is a fracture in the area of the metatarsal bones, the metatarsal bone. It can result in the fracture of a single bone or several of the 5 metatarsal bones. Causes of a metatarsal fracture are violent impacts, such as when the foot is trapped or crushed, but metatarsal fractures can also occur when heavy objects fall on the foot.
3 simple exercises to imitate from physiotherapy
1. exercise – “passive grasping/spreading” 2. exercise – “active grasping/spreading” 3. exercise – “penguin
Physiotherapy
The start of physiotherapy depends on the previous form of therapy. If the fracture was treated conservatively, therapy begins with removal of the plaster splint after immobilization is complete, about 4-6 weeks after the fracture. In the case of surgical treatment, partial weight bearing may be possible in the first 6 weeks.
The individual course depends on the healing process and the doctor’s instructions. Until this time, classic post-operative physiotherapy can take place, in which the development of oedema or contractures in surrounding joints is to be prevented by means of targeted gentle movement exercises or manual lymph drainage.
- Mobilization When movement is released, physiotherapy begins after a metatarsal fracture with light mobilization exercises of the toes, which should be performed actively, but can also be supported passively.
The midfoot can still be fixed and stabilized. The mobilization of the metatarsus is then increased more and more by allowing the movement to continue into the metatarsus. Gripping exercises of the toes, arch training (twisting of the forefoot against the heel, e.g. using spiral dynamics) are also part of the therapy.
- Gait pattern Once the load capacity has been released, the aim is to develop a gait pattern that is as physiological as possible.
Exercises for rolling, stability and mobility of the foot with all its joints are the focus here. The intensity of the training is increasingly increased and the patient should complete a homework program on his own. In the advanced rehabilitation phase, it is also possible to do sports-specific training and everyday forms of stress that are important for the patient.
