[Early functional treatment of a 5th metatarsal fracture using an orthopedic boot]

The fracture of the base of the fifth metatarsal bone is a common fracture of the foot. We differentiate avulsion fractures of the apophysis from meta-diaphysial of the Jones-Type. In the literature you find many different methods of treatment extending from simple immobilization through functional strapping to osteosynthesis of the fracture. Depending on the method of treatment the results are quite different especially in the period of immobilization and the period of sick-leave. From March 1988 to September 1991 52 patients of the orthopedic clinic Kantonsspital Liestal/Switzerland with a fracture of the base of their fifth metatarsal bone were treated functionally with a special orthopedic shoe and were studied prospectively. This treatment allowed them full weightbearing after approx. 9 days, the average time of sick-leave was 19 days. Longterm results showed no complications. The majority of patients (92%) were satisfied with this treatment. We consider the early functional treatment of a fracture of the base of the fifth metatarsal bone with an orthopedic boot as a reliable and cost effective treatment.