F3 – Base of 5th Metatarsal Fracture (Paediatric Under 16)

This is a break to the bone on the outside of your foot

Healing:

An ankle being rested on two pillows and supported with an ice pack

It can take up to 6-12 weeks for this fracture to heal.

Pain and swelling:

You may have foot pain and swelling for 3-6 months after your injury. Swelling is often worse at the end of the day.

Taking pain medication, elevating your foot and using ice or cold packs will help. More information is in the next section.

Walking and your boot:

A fracture support boot

The boot (if provided) protects your foot and will make you more comfortable. Wear the boot when you are standing and walking. You can take it off at night and at rest. You need to wear the boot for 4 weeks after your injury. Please inform us if you are diabetic; you may require a specialist boot.

You are allowed to put weight through your foot. You may find it easier to use crutches in the early stages.

Exercises:

It is important to start exercises as soon as possible. Instructions are in the next section.

Follow up:

A follow up appointment is not normally needed for this injury. If you still have significant pain and swelling after 2 months, then please contact the Virtual Fracture Clinic team.

Caring for your injury: Weeks 1-4

Remember to wear your boot whenever standing and walking. You can remove the boot when resting, at night and to wash and dress. Wear a long sock in your boot.

Using a cold pack will help with your pain and swelling. You can use an ice pack or bag of frozen peas wrapped in a damp towel. Put this on your foot for up to 15 minutes every few hours. Make sure the ice is not in direct contact with your skin.

Try to rest your foot, especially in the first 24-72 hours. Raise your foot on a stool or cushions to that it is above the level of your hip. This will help to reduce your swelling.

Exercises:

Early movement of the ankle and foot is important to promote circulation and reduce the risk of developing a Deep Vein Thrombosis (blood clot). If you notice any swelling or redness in the calf, please attend A&E.

Do these exercises 3-4 times a day. Start straight away, you do not need to push into pain.

1. Point your foot up and down. Repeat this 10 times.

Point your foot up and down. Repeat this 10 times.

2. With your heels together, move your toes apart to turn the foot outwards. Repeat this 10 times. Do this movement gently within comfort.

With your heels together, move your toes apart to turn the foot outwards. Repeat this 10 times. Do this movement gently within comfort.
3. Make gentle circles with your foot in one direction and then the other direction. Repeat this 10 times.

Make gentle circles with your foot in one direction and then the other direction. Repeat this 10 times.

Caring for your injury: Week 4-12

It is now 4 weeks since your injury and you can start to wean out of your boot. Stop using it around your own home first and continue wearing it for longer distances. You should aim to be walking without your boot by 6-8 weeks after injury.

It is normal to still have mild discomfort and swelling. This may continue for 3-6 months.

Activity and Exercise

Keep doing your exercises until you have recovered full movement in your foot.

Gradually increase your level of activity. You should avoid impact activity for 3 months from the time of injury. This includes running and jumping.

Any questions:

If you are concerned about your symptoms, are unable to follow this rehabilitation plan or have pain other than at the site of your injury please contact the Virtual Fracture Clinic team.

Frequently Asked Questions

I am struggling with my boot. What do I do?

The boot has a thicker sole; this can make you feel uneven. Make sure you wear a supportive shoe or trainer on your uninjured foot. This will reduce stress on other joints. If you are struggling to wean out of your boot please contact us.

If you need more advice contact the Virtual Fracture Clinic.

I am diabetic, does this change things?

If you are diabetic please contact us to discuss your boot. This is particularly important if you have problems with your skin. We may provide you with a specialist diabetic boot.

What do I do with my boot and crutches when I no longer need them?

We are not able to use boots again. These should not be returned to the hospital.

Crutches can be returned to the Fracture Clinic or A&E.

Contact Details for Bedford and Luton

Please contact the hospital where you attended A&E as the other site will not be able to access your notes

BEDFORD HOSPITAL PATIENTS

How do I contact the Virtual Fracture Clinic (VFC)

How do I contact the Fracture Clinic?

  • Telephone 01234 792138

How do I contact the Plaster Room?

  • Telephone 01234 792031
  • Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm (out of hours contact the Emergency Department)

LUTON & DUNSTABLE HOSPITAL PATIENTS

How do I contact the Virtual Fracture Clinic (VFC)

  • Telephone 01582 718121
  • Messages will be checked every morning Monday to Friday (except for Bank Holidays)
  • Email VFCLuton@ldh.nhs.uk

How do I contact the Fracture Clinic?

  • Telephone 01582 497194 or 01582 718 993 (outpatient appointments)

How do I contact the Plaster Room?

  • Telephone 01582 491166 (ext. 2233)
  • Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm (out of hours contact the Emergency Department)