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Suggestions For Swollen And Tight Foot Due To Incomplete Fracture?
I have an incomplete fracture at the base of my 5th metatarsal. I fell down stairs one week ago, have been icing 3 times a day, taking Advil and ibuprofen every 4-5 hours. Also taking arnica 3/day. The top of my foot is very swollen and is feeling tight and quite itchy today. Hurts more than yesterday. I have no cast. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks
Tue, 18 Mar 2014
Hi, thanks for writing to HCM.
Any type of fracture (either complete or incomplete) needs some form of immobilization in the form of cast boot or a foot splint for atleast 3 weeks for the injured bone to heal.
Pain, swelling, discolouration of skin, itching and feeling tightness are considered to be a part of the reparative healing process.
- Protect the injured area from further injury by using a support or splint
- Ice packing the painful area for the first 48 to 72 hours after the injury. Apply ice wrapped in a damp towel to the injured area for 15 to 20 minutes every two to three hours during the day
- Use an elastic compression bandage around the injured area to limit any swelling and movement that could damage it further. It should be wrapped snugly around the affected area but not so tightly that it restricts blood flow.
- Keep the injured area raised and supported on a pillow to help reduce swelling.
If your symptoms are not resolving, consult an orthopedic surgeon for further management.
Hope this information is helpful. Good day
Any type of fracture (either complete or incomplete) needs some form of immobilization in the form of cast boot or a foot splint for atleast 3 weeks for the injured bone to heal.
Pain, swelling, discolouration of skin, itching and feeling tightness are considered to be a part of the reparative healing process.
- Protect the injured area from further injury by using a support or splint
- Ice packing the painful area for the first 48 to 72 hours after the injury. Apply ice wrapped in a damp towel to the injured area for 15 to 20 minutes every two to three hours during the day
- Use an elastic compression bandage around the injured area to limit any swelling and movement that could damage it further. It should be wrapped snugly around the affected area but not so tightly that it restricts blood flow.
- Keep the injured area raised and supported on a pillow to help reduce swelling.
If your symptoms are not resolving, consult an orthopedic surgeon for further management.
Hope this information is helpful. Good day
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