Does An Undisplaced Break In The 5th Metatarsal Heal By Its Own?

Posted on Wed, 26 Mar 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 26 Mar 2014 Answered on

Sat, 19 Apr 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I experienced what my physician called a "dancer's" break of the 5th metatarsal. I rolled my foot off of high heel shoe. It is a clean break and after examining the X rays DR stated the bone was not displaced. Prescribed walking boot & crutches. No weight & keep elevated when resting. I return in 2 weeks to determine if healing. Happened one week ago...swelling has subsided for the most part with exception to in the evenings there is some swelling & a little tingling sensation in toes. I am a 49 year old woman in good health. Is there a possibility this break will heal on its own without surgery?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Praveen Tayal (40 minutes later)

Brief Answer: Surgery is not needed. Detailed Answer: Hello, Thanks for posting your query. An undisplaced break in the 5th metatarsal will heal on its own in 6-8 weeks without the need of surgery. You have been given the right treatment. There is no need to worry. Avoid weight bearing on the foot. Surgery is not needed. You can take calcium and Vitamin D 3 supplements for a faster healing. I hope this answers your query. In case you have additional questions or doubts, you can forward them to me, and I shall be glad to help you out. Wishing you good health. Regards. Dr. Praveen Tayal. For future query, you can directly approach me through my profile URL http://bit.ly/Dr-Praveen-Tayal

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar