Is a fracture of the base of the fifth metatarsal serious?

The severity of the fifth metatarsal base fracture is related to the alignment of the fracture. If the fracture is well aligned, this is not a serious fracture. In general, the foot should be fixed in a cast, and the foot should be elevated during the fixation period, which will help the swelling of the foot to subside. If it is clear that the fracture has a continuous crust, the cast can be removed and the fracture will heal in about three months by gradually walking on the ground with the support of a double crutch. If the fracture at the base of the fifth metatarsal is significantly displaced, the distal fracture block is completely separated from the proximal end, or the peroneal tendon is avulsed, this is relatively serious and often requires surgery for internal fixation of the fracture cut. The fracture can recover better only after surgery, and the recovery time is about three months.