Not all fractures are created equal. Humans have 26 different bones in each foot, and the way bones fracture in particular situations requires a specialized response. Our Arizona foot trauma doctors recognize it’s important that patients understand how specific injuries can break certain bones in the foot. Here are just a few fracture injuries that we regularly treat at our clinic in Surprise, Arizona:
- Talus Fracture. The talus is a small bone that serves an important purpose: it is the connector between the foot (at the heel) and the two bones of the lower leg (the tibia and fibula). The talus will help transfer weight and pressure across the ankle joint. Often associated with lower back injuries, talus fractures are generally seen after motor vehicle accidents or falls from heights.
- Calcaneus Fracture. This is a fracture of the heel bone. These injuries are generally severe because they are associated with accidents that come with a lot of force behind them, such as a car accident. They are also commonly seen after a bad fall from an elevated surface.
- Jones Fracture. This is a fracture of the fifth metatarsal, which is the long bone on the outside of the foot. Jones fractures are generally associated with sprained ankles, because it's common for them to happen when an ankle rolls and the outside of the foot follows suit.
- Metatarsal Stress Fracture. This will usually be an incomplete crack in one of the five metatarsal bones located in the forefoot. These come from repetitive or excessive motions and are commonly linked to running, dancing, or jumping. A person who plays sports or exercises too much may develop a metatarsal stress fracture.
- Navicular Stress Fracture. This type of stress fracture has similar causes to the metatarsal stress fracture, but it affects the navicular bone (a bone in the mid-foot, right at the top of the arch).
If you are suffering from a foot or ankle fracture, you should see an experienced podiatrist immediately.
