Metatarsal Stress Injury

By Giulia Maruzza|2024-12-20T03:46:52+00:00December 16th, 2024|

What is a metatarsal stress injury?

A metatarsal stress injury, often referred to as a metatarsal stress fracture, is an overuse injury that affects the metatarsal bones in the foot. It occurs when the stress on the bone exceeds the bone’s ability to repair and heal. There are 5 metatarsal bones in the foot that connect the ankle bones and toes, they are crucial for weight-bearing movement and activity.

What causes a metatarsal stress injury?

Metatarsals stress injuries are caused by:

Overuse: Repetitive activities, such as running, jumping or high-impact sports, can increase the likelihood of stress reactions in these bones.
Poor footwear: Shoes that do not provide adequate cushioning or support can contribute to stress injuries.
Training errors: Sudden changes and increases in duration, intensity or frequency of physical activity can contribute to excessive stress on the metatarsals.
Biomechanical issues: Abnormal foot mechanics such as high arches or flat feet can increase the risk of a metatarsal stress injury.

What are the symptoms of a metatarsal stress injury?

The symptoms of a metatarsal stress injury include:

Pain: Typically, the pain is localized to the affected metatarsal and could worsen with activity and lessen with rest.
Swelling: The area of the injury may be become swollen and tender upon touch.
Bruising: It is possible that some individuals may experience bruising around the site of the injury, especially if the stress injury has led to a stress fracture.
Difficulty weight-bearing: With all the above, it may be difficult for the individual to stand or walk, leading to compensation on the other limb or limping.

How can our Melbourne Podiatrists help with treatment?

Our Melbourne Podiatrists can help treat metatarsal stress fractures with:

Comprehensive assessment: Examine the foot structures, gait, and biomechanics to understand and identify any underlying causes of a metatarsal stress injury.
Imaging: They may refer for x-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to confirm the presence of a stress injury and/or rule out other conditions.
Pain management: They may suggest the use of NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) or other medication if required.
Footwear advice: Our podiatrists can advise on selecting appropriate footwear, that provides proper cushioning / support required, tailored to individual activities and foot types.
Custom Orthotics: They may prescribe custom orthotics to improve biomechanics and redistribute pressure on the metatarsals.
Physical therapy: Recommendations of stretching and strengthening exercises to improve overall foot function and prevent the recurrence of injuries.
Referral to other specialists: If required, our podiatrists can refer to sports medicine doctors or orthopedic specialists, for further collaborative care.

If you suspect you may have a Metatarsal stress injury, seek professional help at Melbourne Podiatrists and Orthotics for effective care and treatment options tailored to your individual needs. Don’t let your foot problems hold you back from enjoying an active lifestyle.