What should you know about metatarsal growth plate fracture?

Growth plates are softer areas near the ends of children's and adolescents' bones where lengthwise growth occurs. A fracture may follow a twist, fall, or direct impact and can cause pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. The injury may be subtle on an early X-ray, especially when symptoms are mild. The clinician considers tenderness, foot shape, circulation, and the child's stage of growth; further imaging or follow-up may be needed.

Keep weight off the foot if advised and use the support provided by the treating team. Fracture Casting may protect the bone while it heals; crutches should be used only as shown. Keep the cast or splint dry, avoid putting objects inside it, and check the toes for colour, warmth, movement, and sensation. Do not return to running or jumping until healing and function have been reviewed. A displaced or unstable injury may require Fracture Fixation Surgery.

Seek urgent help if pain or swelling rapidly increases, the toes become blue, pale, cold, numb, or difficult to move, or the cast feels dangerously tight. Contact the treating team for a wet, cracked, loose, or damaged cast, new rubbing, feverish symptoms, or worsening pain. Follow-up is especially important if tenderness remains because the growth plate may need monitoring as healing continues.

Ask which metatarsal and growth-plate area are involved, whether the fracture is displaced, how much weight is allowed, and when repeat imaging is needed. Ask which changes in foot shape or growth should prompt review.