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Jones Fracture

Fracture at the metaphyseal-diaphyseal junction of the fifth metatarsal characterized by poor blood supply and high non-union risk requiring careful management decisions.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Ortopedi ve Travmatoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Jones Fracture?

A Jones fracture is a true fracture at the proximal metaphyseal-diaphyseal junction of the fifth metatarsal, distinguished from more proximal pseudo-Jones (avulsion of styloid process from peroneus brevis tendon traction) and more distal stress fractures of fifth metatarsal diaphysis.

Located in zone 2 (Lawrence and Botte classification) — a vascular watershed between metaphyseal blood supply (from foot dorsalis pedis branches) and diaphyseal blood supply (from intramedullary nutrient artery); reduced blood flow predisposes to delayed union (16-26 weeks) and non-union (15-30%).

Mechanism is typically inversion stress with adduction force on the cuboid bone driving fracture through the metaphyseal-diaphyseal junction; common in athletes with sudden directional changes, stress fractures from repetitive overload (basketball, soccer, ballet), or single high-energy traumatic events.

Symptoms

Acute lateral foot pain after twisting injury
Tenderness 1.5-3 cm distal to proximal fifth metatarsal
Swelling and bruising along lateral foot
Difficulty bearing weight on lateral foot
Painful weight-bearing ambulation
Athletic injury during pivoting or cutting
Possible deformity if displaced

Risk Factors

Athletic activities with cutting and pivoting
Cavovarus foot deformity
Stress fracture from training overload
Vitamin D deficiency and osteopenia
Female athlete triad (eating disorder, amenorrhea, low BMD)
Smoking impairing fracture healing
Diabetes mellitus and metabolic bone disease

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Lateral foot pain after twisting injury
  • Difficulty walking on lateral foot
  • Persistent pain after suspected sprain
  • Stress fracture symptoms in athlete
  • Failed conservative treatment with delayed union
  • Recurrent fracture at fifth metatarsal
  • Athletic return-to-play decision making

Treatment Methods

01
Initial X-rays to confirm fracture location and displacement
02
Non-displaced — non-weight-bearing short leg cast 6-8 weeks then walking boot
03
Athletes and high-demand patients — early intramedullary screw fixation (4.5-6.5 mm)
04
Displaced fractures or chronic non-unions — open reduction internal fixation with bone grafting
05
Bone stimulator therapy for delayed union
06
Vitamin D and calcium optimization for stress fracture cases
07
Gradual return to athletics after radiographic union confirmed (typically 8-12 weeks)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Ortopedi ve Travmatoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.