How soon can I walk after metatarsal surgery?
Before you return to normal shoe wear after surgery for a fractured fifth metatarsal, your physician usually instructs you to steadily increase your weight bearing exercises. As pain permits, begin with short walks in your weight-bearing cast or cam walker about four weeks after surgery.
How long does it take to heal from metatarsal surgery?
Generally it takes a total of six to eight weeks, or longer, for the bone to heal. During this healing period, the foot should be protected from excessive weight bearing. Walking prematurely on the foot can cause the bone to shift and heal in an incorrect position.
How long does non weight bearing last after metatarsal fracture?
In three to five days, a molded, non–weight-bearing, short leg cast may be applied. Seven to 10 days after injury, radiographs should be obtained through the cast to check fracture position. If position is still good, the cast should be worn for three to four more weeks with progressive weight bearing.
Can I drive with metatarsalgia?
When can I return to driving? You must be free of pain and able to perform an emergency stop.
Do cortisone shots help metatarsalgia?
Conditions that cause inflammation of the forefoot may also benefit from a cortisone injection. Cortisone is a powerful anti-inflammatory medication, and the injection allows a high concentration of this medication to be delivered directly to the area of the problem.
Can surgery fix metatarsalgia?
During metatarsal surgery, a metatarsal bone is cut behind the toe, properly positioned, and fixed in place with a metal screw or pin. After a few weeks, your doctor will remove the pin. This surgery usually is performed on an outpatient basis.
How painful is a metatarsal stress fracture?
The most common symptom of a stress fracture is pain, which can progress from a dull ache to a sharp pain when untreated. In the early stages, pain diminishes with rest, but later it can occur at rest and during the night. Swelling and bruising of the foot may also be present.
What are the side effects of metatarsal surgery?
Metatarsal Surgery. Complications associated with this surgery are: infection, failure of the bone to heal in its correct position resulting in the return of the painful callous or transfer of the callous to a new location, delays or failure of bone healing, stress fractures of adjacent metatarsals, or excessive swelling.
How long does it take for metatarsal surgery to heal?
Generally it takes a total of six to eight weeks, or longer, for the bone to heal. During this healing period, the foot should be protected from excessive weight bearing. Walking prematurely on the foot can cause the bone to shift and heal in an incorrect position. This is the most common cause of failure with this surgery.
What are the risks of a fifth metatarsal fracture?
Risks/Complications. Although 5th metatarsal fractures are typically successfully managed with non-surgical care, there are some potential risks of the fracture and the management of the fracture. General complications of foot and ankle fractures may include: Failure of bone healing (delayed or non-healing of bone)
When to return to sports after a metatarsal fracture?
You can expect to return to full activity 3-4 months after a typical fracture. This includes returning to sports. Some fractures may require bone grafting and have longer recoveries. The screw is not usually removed unless it causes discomfort.