The result is that the metatarsals do not work efficiently as shock absorbers and cracks begin to appear. When the muscles stiffen this has a direct impact on the function of the metatarsals, because this is where a number of muscles connect. The reason for this is that when the foot is put under a great amount of stress over a long period of time the muscles tire and stiffen. What causes a stress fracture of the metatarsal?Ī stress fracture of the metatarsal is an overuse injury caused by the bone being put under great stress over a long period of time, which weakens the bone predisposing it to fracture. Unlike an actual 'break' in the bone, which divides the bone and occurs as a result of trauma, a stress fracture is more like a small crack that has appeared due to repetitive stress hence the name 'stress fracture'.Ī stress fracture of the metatarsal is most often seen in the second metatarsal. This is because stress fractures of the metatarsal were often found in soldiers due to the amount of marching they were required to do.Ī stress fracture of the metatarsal is essentially an overuse injury that is typically seen in those who participate in high impact sports. The metatarsals are therefore subject to great forces and are particularly susceptible to a stress fracture.Ī stress fracture of the metatarsal is also sometimes referred to as a March fracture. The metatarsals also help form two of the arches in the foot, and as a result they act as stabilizers. The metatarsals have an important role in foot function this is because the metatarsals act as shock absorbers, absorbing our body weight which is transferred through the foot with every step. The metatarsals are a set of five long, thin bones that connect the ankle and tarsal bones to the toes. What is a stress fracture of the metatarsal? It is important to visit a podiatrist if you think you have a stress fracture, because the sooner it is treated the better the chance it has of healing quickly and you can resume your normal activity. Stress fractures are commonly found in the metatarsals (the long bones that connect the middle of the foot to the toes) and can be a great source of pain. A stress fracture is a small crack that appears in a bone as a result of repetitive stress.
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