Sports Injury Info

Broken metatarsal little toe

by Ann
(Canada)

Hi there..........I broke my metatarsal on my little toe at Easter and the doctor removed my cast in 10 days but the toe has not yet healed. I had an x-ray a couple days ago and the doctor said that the toe has not healed even a little and that there was nothing that could be done. I got a pair of crutches and using those for the last couple of days.

There is no pain when I walk but I am getting shin splints in my legs when I go for walks. I am keeping my toe wrapped with tensors which was advised by the doctor.

I am not sure if I should be concerned or should be doing more. I am concerned that the doctor has no real knowledge on broken toes and plan to see another doctor. Should I ask them to put another cast on my foot as I find it hard to stay off my feet.

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to ask you a question and look forward to your suggestions.

Ann

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Broken metatarsal little toe

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Jun 23, 2008
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starstarstarstarstar 		A little confused...
by: Bart - SII

Did you break the metatarsal (the bones in the foot), or did you fracture one of the bones in your toe? I ask because the treatment is significantly different for each injury.

Most of the time a fracture of the phalanges (toes) does not necessitate a cast for more than a few days, if at all...and there isn't a lot that can be done other than giving it time to heal and perhaps taping it to the other toe for some support.

A fracture of the metatarsal (bones between the ankle and the toes) necessitates a cast for several weeks, often with crutches, and perhaps a walking boot.

If you are still having problems, and you feel like you are not getting better, a second opinion with another physician is probably a good idea. That way they will either give you another treatment option, or they will reaffirm what your first doctor recommended.

In the meantime, staying off of it if it causes pain is a good idea.

Hope this helps - comment back with other questions.

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