What is a fracture of metatarsal stress?
Metatarsal tension is a fracture of long bones of the foot, between the fingers and the heel. It is the most common of all leg injuries caused by trauma and usually begins as a small crack in the outer shell of one of the five metatarsal bones. These bones help in balance, drive and support the body. The initial crack that is not treated can proceed to a fracture that travels all the way through the bones, resulting in serious pain and immobility.
Metatarsal stress fractures were originally called fractures , because they were common among soldiers at the beginning of the 19th century. Today they occur most often in professional athletes and are second only to the incidence of tibial fractures. Metatarsal fracture of tension is caused by direct trauma or recurring leg stress, such as jumping, dance, marching or running. Incorrect shoes, rapid increase in activity, weak muscles and low bone density can contribute to the development of metatarsal stress fracture.
Excessive activity without rest is also the cause of fractures of stress in metatarsal bones. The bones in the human body are constantly disintegrating and rebuilding and repairing yourself during rest. If an activity with a high impact or unusual stress is for bones without resting, the body sometimes cannot keep up with the reconstruction process. This results in a fracture of tension or a few small cracks in the bone.
symptoms of fracture of metatarsal stress include gradually increasing pain on the upper foot, which may be accompanied by swelling or bruises. At the beginning, the pain is experienced after sport or activity. Over time, the pain becomes serious and felt during everyday activities, or when there is no stress at all. In many cases, the memory of suffering will not usually feel pain at the time of impact.
diagnosis of fractures of stress requires a foot examination and overview of a symptomAků. An X -ray may be made, but is not always an accurate tool for diagnosis. If the X -ray does not reveal any fracture, but the symptoms indicate metatarsal stress, bone scanning may be used to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment of metatarsal stress fracture involves at least three weeks of rest from activity, and if the pain is severe, crutches or special boot may be prescribed for everyday activities. After the initial rest period, a gradual return to normal activity is expected to be in two to four weeks. In some cases, physical therapy, special foot inserts or calcium accessories may be required to accelerate healing. Surgery is rarely necessary, but may be required in extreme cases.