Jones Fracture of the Foot
By Josh Martin, ATC
Jones Fracture of the Foot
A Jones Fracture is a type of fracture at the base of the fifth metatarsal “Pinky Toe.” They are common in athletes or individuals with Pes Cavus “High Arch Feet.”
X-ray of a Jones fracture
Individuals experiencing Pes Cavus typically have an abnormal gait pattern, resulting in increased pressure/weight over the fifth metatarsal. Jones fractures are stress fractures (small fracture that occurs over time) or an acute fracture (sudden break).
If you would like to learn more about Jones Fracture or 5th Metatarsal Fractures, please click here.
Symptoms of Jones Fracture
- Difficulty walking.
- Sharp stabbing pain on the outside of the foot.
- Swelling on the outside border of the foot.
- Bruising and discoloration.
- Usually occurs when the foot inverted or an inversion ankle sprain
Treatment Options
Jones Fractures are challenging to treat due to the lack of blood supply to the area. Treatments consist of either casting and/or surgery. An X-ray will determine the break’s severity. After imaging, your doctor will determine if surgery is necessary.
If surgery is required, plates and screws will be fixated down the fifth metatarsal bone shaft. The recovery process for operative and non-operative patients are very similar. Both consist of non-weight bearing immobilization in a boot for 6-8 weeks. Following immobilization, physical therapy will be required to regain the foot and ankle’s full function and strength. To schedule for physical therapy, please call 904-858-7045.
Ankle Exercises Picture
Physical therapy is so important for a full recovery and a return to your normal activities. The goal would be to improve your motion and regain your strength. To prevent further injuries, you must also improve your proprioception and balance. This can be done with several exercises in physical therapy.
Balance and Proprioception Exercises
Related Article: Foot Pain in Athletes and Direct Access to JOI Physical Therapy.
JOI and JOI Rehab
JOI Physicians continue to offer online new patient appointments. This is another option to make it more convenient to make new patient appointments with less phone hold times. Follow the link below to select your JOI MD and schedule online.
You can still call 904-JOI-2000 to make new patient JOI Physician Appointments if that is your preference.
To make appointments with JOI Rehab, please call 904-858-7045.
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By: Josh Martin, ATC