Broke first metatarsal in my right foot

[gonelegal]

I fractured the first metatarsal in my right foot 9 weeks ago when I fell on my foot and it was twisted under me.  I wore an aircast for two weeks and was having lots of pain in the bottom of the foot.  The podiatrist put a cast on my foot.  Unfortunately it had to be replaced in two weeks.  The second cast was removed two weeks ago.  If I stand on my foot at the basin while brushing my teeth it starts aching.  They put the aircast back on me when the cast was removed but my ankle swelled so much it was very uncomfortable so a different boot was put on me.  I have pain if I put a small amount of my weight on the foot.  I ride my exercise bike (it is on lightest resistance) and my foot gets sore and when I try to walk I start having pain.  According to x-rays done a month ago, my bone has gone back together very well, no displacement.  The doctor told me to stop whatever I was doing if it started hurting, I feel I am never going to be able to drive or ride my bicycle again.  The foot is too swelled to go into my regular sneakers.  How long is this going to last?  I am 72 yrs. old and have good bone density.  There has been very little loss of bone in my body.

I feel very discouraged.  I am tired of having to ask friends for rides and my daughter for rides.  I have been a very active person.  Before I tripped and fell on my foot, I rode my bicycle 15 miles a day.  I am 5'4" and weigh 140 lbs.

[gonelegal]

Thank you for your response.  I found it very helpful.  I am now wearing shoes and when my foot swells, I get off it and elevate it.  I am riding my bicycle as far as 5 miles and I am able to drive again.  I still have pain if I overdo it.  I found that raking leaves is the hardest thing for me to do.  I believe it is the bending over, I am apparently putting a lot of strain on the foot without realizing it.  I am also taking 300 mg of Ibuprofen every day.  Your response helped me a great deal.  It gave me confidence.  I can't thank you enough for your advice.

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

Since the bone has healed well, the swelling and the symptoms are likely to be due to inflammation and is likely to get better with time. Associated joint stiffness may be present at times die to disuse being in the case and may require gradual physiotherapy. I would suggest rest for a few days and gradual return to weight bearing and activities. Keeping the leg elevated and ice-packs along with anti-inflammatory medications may also be helpful for relief. Once the swelling gets better, you may see a physiotherapist to improve movement and muscle strength.
Hope this is helpful.

Take care!