Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
Opening Hours
Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Fractures of the Fifth Metatarsal
What is a fracture of the fifth metatarsal?
There are three different fractures of the fifth metatarsal:
- Avulsion fracture – occurs when a small piece of bone is pulled off by a tendon or ligament.
- Jones fracture – a break between the base and shaft of the fifth metatarsal, often caused by repetitive stress or sudden trauma.
- Stress fracture – a hairline crack in the bone due to overuse or repetitive impact.
How does a fracture of the fifth metatarsal happen?
- Avulsion fracture – often caused by rolling your ankle, where the tendon or ligament pulls off a small piece of bone.
- Jones fracture – can result from sudden twisting of the foot, landing awkwardly, or repetitive stress on the midfoot.
- Stress fracture – develops gradually from overuse, repetitive impact activities (like running or jumping), or a sudden increase in training intensity.
What should I do if I have a fractured fifth metatarsal?
If you have or suspect a fracture of the fifth metatarsal bone, you should stop all activity on the affected foot immediately. Seek urgent medical attention by going to your nearest accident and emergency department. In the meantime, follow the RICE regime—Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation—to help reduce pain and swelling until you receive professional care.
What shouldn’t I do if I have a fractured fifth metatarsal?
You should avoid all exercise if you suspect a fracture of your fifth metatarsal, as continuing to put stress on the bone can worsen the injury and delay healing.
Treatment for a fracture of the fifth metatarsal
- Rest and immobilisation – Avoid weight-bearing activities and keep the foot supported.
- Protective footwear or cast – A walking boot, stiff-soled shoe, or plaster cast may be used to protect and stabilise the fracture while it heals.
- Ice and elevation – Reduce swelling and pain by applying ice and keeping the foot elevated above heart level.
- Pain management – Over-the-counter or prescribed pain relief may be recommended by a healthcare professional.
- Physiotherapy – Once healing has progressed, exercises can help restore strength, flexibility, and balance.
- Surgical intervention – In cases of severe, displaced, or non-healing fractures, surgical fixation with screws or plates may be necessary.
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
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