FRACTURES OF THE 5TH METATARSAL - CAREFUL IDENTIFICATION FOR OPTIMAL TREATMENT

Fractures of the fifth metatarsal are common in active people. Proxima l metaphyseal and distal fractures are usually amenable to conservativ e treatment, but some proximal fractures, such as Jones, stress, and a cute-on-chronic fractures, are often associated with nonunion or delay ed union. Such fractures are often best treated by early operative int ervention. Correct identification of fifth metatarsal fractures is imp ortant because prompt surgical treatment when indicated can shorten re covery and allow a quick return to sports activity. Other causes of la teral foot pain, including accessory ossicles, neuromas, osteoporosis, herniated disks, and osteoid osteoma, should be considered when suspe cted fractures fail to show up on radiographs.