Metatarsals are the long bones in the forefoot and are abused every day with normal walking. When excessive stress is placed upon the ball of the foot, a hairline break (fracture) of a long metatarsal bone may occur. This occurs most frequently to the second, third, or fourth metatarsal but can occur in any bone. Causes of metatarsal stress fractures are usually traced back to some type of overuse. Example: too much running without ample rest for the foot to repair itself. Overpronation and oversupination are also causes. Army recruits, runners, ballet dancers and gymnasts are often affected.

If left undiagnosed and untreated, this fracture can cause uncomfortable pain in the top of the foot. If you suspect that you have a metatarsal stress fracture or other pain in your foot, call Diagnostic Foot Specialists today. We can get you into one of our 5 Houston offices or into the College Station, Texas, office and get you back to being pain free as soon as possible. Call today!