Broken Bones

What are the different types of foot fractures in adults?

A Answers (1)

  • AChristopher Chiodo, MD, Orthopedic Surgery, answered
    Fractures or broken bones in the foot can take the form of a clean break, chipped bones, or stress fractures -- incomplete hairline cracks that result from repetitive, low-impact stress. Symptoms of fractures include pain, bruising, and an inability to put weight on the foot.

    All fractures require immediate attention. An untreated fracture might not heal properly and could result in deformity, persistent pain, or both.

    If you suspect that you've fractured your foot, have it looked at right away. Although any bone in the foot can break, fractures occur most frequently in the toes (phalanges), when a person stubs the toe or drops something on it. The metatarsals -- the long, thin bones that lead from the toes to the arch -- are likewise common fracture sites. Metatarsal injuries typically occur if something is dropped on the foot or if it's forcefully twisted.
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What are the symptoms of a foot fracture in adults?