What should be taken into account when doing sports after a metatarsal fracture? | Duration of a metatarsal fracture

What should be taken into account when doing sports after a metatarsal fracture?

The metatarsal fracture is one of the most common bone injuries to the foot and is often caused by certain sports, among other things. It is important to distinguish between a so-called stress fracture and a fracture caused by external force.Stress fractures occur during sports that place a high load on the foot. Dancers in particular are increasingly affected by this form of metatarsal fracture.

The question of when to start sports activities again requires a differentiation of the sports practiced. In general, after about 6 weeks partial weight bearing of the foot is possible. Initially, only exercises should be carried out which serve to build up the muscles of the foot and which exert only minimal strain on the metatarsal bones.

After about two months, sports that are associated with a low load on the foot, such as swimming, can be performed again. Sports that are associated with a high load on the foot, such as dancing or running, should not be practiced until 6 to 12 months after the operation. This is especially true if the metatarsal fracture was a stress fracture. Individual advice on which type of sport is recommended in each individual case can be given by the treating physician.

Prognosis for a metatarsal fracture

The prognosis is very good for an uncomplicated fracture where the fragments are not displaced. However, in the case of a complicated fracture, or if surrounding tissue such as cartilage is involved, pseudarthrosis may occur. In this case, the fragments do not grow together and rub against each other during movement, which causes pain. Whether the foot can be moved again completely after the healing process is complete and the patient is free of pain cannot be said in general.