Jones Fracture

Jones fracture is a fracture of the 5th metatarsal bone on the outside of the foot. It occurs through overuse, or following a severe ankle sprain.

Signs & symptoms

Breaking any bone is painful. Symptoms of a Jones fracture are:

• Sudden pain at the base of the 5th metatarsal. This is the long bone on the outside of your foot.
• There will be tenderness at the point of injury on the outside of the foot.
• unable to bear weight on the foot.
• Foot may also appear deformed.

Treatment

Jones fractures are first identified with diagnostic X-rays. 

Immobilization

Initial treatment usually means the patient has to wear a cast for 6-8 weeks. This immobilizes the foot and prevents weight-bearing activity. If the fracture fails to heal during this time then surgery is indicated.

Jones fracture surgery

Surgery for a Jones fracture of the foot involves placing plates and screws in the bones to hold them in place while they heal. Often Surgeons prefer to place a screw in the bones to hold them in place immediately rather than wait.

Return to sport is shown to be quicker with this method of surgery (around 2 to 4 weeks). However, this does make it more likely the individual will re-fracture the bone.

The time taken to return to full training after a surgical fixation operation is around 8 weeks, although it is recommended for full healing to be seen on a radiographic image before full training is resumed.