Topic Overview

What is a fifth metatarsal Jones fracture?

A fifth metatarsal Jones fracture is a break or a thin, hairline crack in the long bone on the outside of the foot. A Jones fracture occurs near the end of this bone that is closest to the ankle.

What causes a Jones fracture?

A Jones fracture can happen when a person jumps or changes direction quickly and twists the foot or ankle the wrong way. Or it can happen because of repeated stress on the bones of the foot.

How is it treated?

Treatment depends on how bad the fracture is.

Small fractures are usually treated with ice and rest. You may take over-the-counter (OTC) medicines for pain. Or your doctor may prescribe pain medicines. Your doctor may recommend that you get physical therapy to help regain strength and range of motion in your foot.

You may wear a cast on your foot to help keep it stable. A splint may be used in some cases if there is a lot of swelling. You may use crutches to help keep weight off your foot. Your doctor may recommend that you keep weight off the foot for several weeks.

For some fractures, your doctor may recommend surgery.

The fracture may take 6 weeks to several months to heal. It is important to give your foot time to heal completely, so that you don’t hurt it again. Do not return to your usual activities until your doctor says you can.