Bone fracture in the foot

Anatomy: The foot bones comprise the 7 tarsal bones (ossa tarsi), the 5 metatarsal bones (ossa metatarsi) and the 14 bones in the toes (phalanx). Furthermore, the lower part of the shin bone (tibia) and calf bone (fibula) form a part of the ankle joint.

Symptoms: Pain when applying pressure (direct or indirect tenderness), and when applying load or strain.

Acute treatment: Click here.

Examination: X-ray examination will usually reveal the fracture (article-1)(article-2). The fracture can in some cases first be seen after 14 days, thus the x-ray examination should be repeated if there is a continued suspicion of a fracture.

Treatment: Treatment is completely dependent upon which bones are broken, and whether there is a dislocation of the fracture. In some cases relief and rest without bandaging can be opted for, whereas other types of fracture require bandaging and possibly surgical intervention (article) (X-ray picture).

Rehabilitation of children and adolescents: The load and type of rehabilitation which can be permitted is completely dependent upon the severity, and the treatment of the fracture. It is therefore important that the rehabilitation is performed in close cooperation with the doctors controlling the treatment.

Complications: If there is not a steady improvement in the condition a medical examination should be performed once more to ensure that the fracture is healing according to plan. In some cases, a false joint can develop which will require (renewed) surgical treatment (X-ray picture). There can be a risk of growth disturbance if the fracture includes the shin bone’s growth zones at the ankle (article).