Jones fractures are a type of fractured bone to the fifth metatarsal—the long bone on the outside of the foot that connects to the small toe. This common foot injury is caused by excessive stress or twisting force applied to the foot, usually from running or jumping.
Though similar, Jones fractures are often confused with avulsion fractures. Both injuries occur to the same metatarsal, but an avulsion injury occurs when the ligament connecting the base of the big toe to the rest of the foot tears away from the bone and becomes detached.
Jones Fracture Prevention
Jones fractures are a prevalent injury, especially in athletes and people who spend a lot of time on their feet. They can happen from overuse in activity levels, falling or slipping, or a sports injury. The best way to prevent this injury is to wear proper footwear. It is important to have shoes with good support and cushioning to avoid putting too much pressure on your feet. It is also important to use proper training techniques, including running on flat surfaces.
How to Tell if Your Foot is Fractured
If you had an injury from a sport or work, you may have a foot fracture that could be a Jones fracture. Some common foot fracture symptoms are:
- Pain at the bottom of your foot
- Swelling around the area where the injury occurred
- Numbness or tingling in the toes
- Trouble walking
- Discoloration
You should see a doctor immediately if you notice any of these symptoms. A Jones fracture can cause severe problems if left untreated, so do not wait until it gets worse before seeing a doctor.
Diagnosing a Jones Fracture
A Jones fracture diagnosis involves taking X-rays of your foot. These X-rays will show whether there is damage to the bones in your foot. In addition to X-rays, your doctor may use MRIs or CT scans to get a clear picture of the injury. Your doctor will then determine the severity of the injury and the treatment plan needed.
Jones Fracture Treatment
The first step in treating a Jones fracture is making sure you get a physical exam from a doctor. Once you arrive, your doctor will examine your foot and take X-rays to ensure there is no other damage to your body. They will also ask about your patient history of previous injuries and check for signs of infection.
After examining your foot, your doctor will decide if surgical intervention is necessary. If you do not need surgical intervention, there are nonoperative foot fracture treatments such as casting, splinting, bracing, and physical therapy. Nonsurgery treatments will take 6 to 8 weeks to heal.
If you need surgery to treat your Jones fracture, your doctor must remove damaged tissue and realign the broken bones. Typically, this surgery is an outpatient surgery, which means you will be able to go home that day. Depending on the type of fracture, a surgeon will perform traditional surgery or bone grafting.
In general surgery, your doctor will realign the broken bones and place rods, plates, screws, and/or pins and wires. If your doctor is performing a bone graft, they will insert a piece of bone into the space between the two parts of the broken bones. After the surgery, you must follow up with your doctor regularly to ensure healing is progressing correctly. Healing time for a Jones fracture surgery will take about 3 to 4 months.
Sometimes, doctors recommend using a boot or leg cast after surgery. This helps keep the injured foot stable during recovery. It is important to remember that all surgeries aim to return the patient to regular activity as soon as possible. Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions on how to care for your foot after the procedure. Failure to follow instructions may delay healing or cause the need for additional surgery.
Jones Fracture FAQ
Foot Injury Symptoms: Broken vs Sprained
Understanding the difference between a broken foot and a sprained foot is crucial for proper treatment. A broken foot, or fracture, often results in severe pain, swelling, bruising, and the inability to bear weight on the affected foot. In contrast, a sprained foot typically involves less severe pain, mild to moderate swelling, and some difficulty in movement, but weight-bearing might still be possible. If you suspect a severe injury, consult a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Difference Between Sprained Ankle and Broken Foot
A sprained ankle occurs when the ligaments that support the joint are stretched or torn, usually due to twisting or rolling the ankle. It often results in pain, swelling, and bruising around the ankle, but the bones remain intact.
In contrast, a broken foot involves a fracture in one or more of the bones in the foot. This can happen from high-impact trauma or severe stress to the foot. Symptoms of a broken foot include intense pain, swelling, bruising, and the inability to bear weight on the affected foot.
How Long Does It Take for a Broken Foot Bone to Heal?
Healing time for a broken foot bone can vary based on the severity and location of the fracture. Generally, it takes about 6 to 8 weeks for most foot fractures to heal. However, more complex fractures might require a longer healing period, and factors like age, overall health, and adherence to treatment can influence recovery time.
Why does the outside of my foot hurt when I walk?
Pain on the outer side of your foot when walking can be caused by various factors. It might result from an injury, such as a sprain or fracture, or due to overuse leading to conditions like tendonitis or bursitis. Improper footwear can also contribute to discomfort, as well as underlying issues such as arthritis or nerve compression. Consulting a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan is recommended.
Emerge Stronger, Healthier, and Better
EmergeOrtho—Blue Ridge Region offers the best orthopedic surgeons to treat Jones fractures, avulsion fractures, and any other injury to the foot. Request an appointment if you think you have a foot fracture so our experts can help you emerge stronger, healthier, and better.
