What is a Jone's Fracture?

Jone’s Fracture

What is a Jone’s Fracture?

A Jone’s Fracture is a break or fracture of the fifth metatarsal bone in the region of the diaphysis (which is toward the bottom of the bone). The fifth metatarsal is the long bone which attaches to the fifth toe. This bone can be injured by twisting the foot or ankle, falling, or some type of force directly over the bone. People that have this injury can develop pain, swelling, difficulty walking/standing, and a feeling of instability.

Diagnosis/Treatment

This injury is diagnosed with X-Rays. Other advanced imaging modalities, such as MRI, CT scans, or ultrasound, can be used if further information is needed about the alignment of the bones.

If the break is in good alignment, immobilization with a cast or walking boot will usually allow adequate healing. However, if the X-Rays show that the fragments of bone are not aligned, surgical intervention is indicated, usually with the placement of screws, plates, or other hardware to hold the bone together. Most fractures of the foot will heal in 6-8 weeks with adequate treatment. However, initial healing of this bone in particular can be delayed or prolonged due to the decreased or poor blood supply to this portion of the bone and due to the attachment of the peroneus brevis tendon to the base of the fifth metatarsal.

Dr. Bender, 708-763-0580

Patriot's Gronkowski and High Ankle Sprains

In preparation for the Super Bowl, the New England Patriot's tight end, Rob Gronkowski, has removed his walking boot for a high ankle sprain. Although anyone can suffer this injury when the leg shifts outward and injures the syndesmosis or ligaments connecting the tibia and fibula bones of the leg, football players are more prone to this injury. This is different than a conventional ankle sprain, as it is higher (above the ankle). The injury can take days or months to heal, and the initial treatment focuses on RICE (rest, ice, compression/strapping/immobilization, and elevation).

Dr. Bender, Advanced Physical Medicine, 708-763-0580