A Jones fracture occurs at the base of the foot near the little toe when the midsection of the 5th metatarsal bone is broken. This type of injury is rather common among basketball players. A Jones fracture is typically the result of stress on the bone rather than contact, but if left untreated, pain and swelling can occur. Due to limited blood flow in the affected area, this injury may take longer to heal and has a greater possibility of refracture. In order to limit the chance of refracture, surgery is generally the most recommended treatment option. The surgery involves placing a screw into the foot to stabilize the area around the injury and minimize the amount of time required for immobilization. A Jones fracture usually takes six to eight weeks to heal completely. If you believe that you suffered a Jones fracture while playing basketball or any other sport, it is important to have it checked by a podiatrist for proper care and treatment.
Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Dr. John Branwell from Kearny, New Jersey. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Common Injuries
The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:
- Achilles Tendonitis
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- Ankle Sprains
- Broken Foot
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Stress Fractures
- Turf Toe
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.
Treatment
Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Kearny, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
