Any of the bones in the foot can be broken or cracked in a sudden traumatic injury. This can happen at any age. In adolescents trauma can damage damage epiphyseal plate or growth area within a bone. This is particularly common in the metatarsals, and is called Freiberg’s condition. It can lead to bone weakness and the formation of bone fragments (loose bodies).
What you feel
Pain can be severe or slight at the moment of the injury. There may be bleeding if the bone is badly disrupted. Even if the bone is not displaced, there is usually swelling and bruising round the injury, and you may notice numbness or tingling sensations. Weight-bearing hurts, although you may be able to walk with a limp. When your foot is off the ground, the foot may or may not hurt. Aching builds up if you sit or stand still for a length of time.
Causes for Traumatic Foot Fractures
Jarring or a sudden shock from a fall or direct blow can break the foot bones. Contributory factors include tight, stiff shoes and wearing shoes and wearing shoes with the wrong grip for the playing surface, especially on artificial surfaces. If the bones weak through dietary insufficiency or osteoporosis, fractures happen more easily.
Treatment for Traumatic Foot Fractures
Your foot may be immobilised in a splint or plaster cast, and you should use crutches. If the fracture is complicated, you may be offered an operation to stabilise the bones.
