How long it takes for a metatarsal fracture to heal entirely depends on how serious the break is and how well you take care of it. Your full recovery may range from several weeks to several months. The more serious the injury is—cracks in multiple places, broken ends that don’t align, pieces that have to be surgically held together—the longer it will take. Failing to treat it correctly lengthens healing time, too. Whether it’s a simple or more complicated injury, the recovery process follows roughly the same pattern.
First, you spend a few weeks in a cast or special boot to immobilize your foot. You’ll minimize or completely avoid putting weight on the affected limb during this time. If your fracture required surgery, the immobilization period may last a couple months. After your bones show signs of healing, you’ll slowly begin putting weight on that foot again. You’ll move to wearing stiff-soled and then more comfortable shoes as you recondition your feet for activity. Don’t wait to get help for a fracture—the recovery will only take longer. Let Podiatry Associates, P.C. and Castle Pines Physical Therapy help you. Call (303) 805-5156 to make an appointment.