What is a Jones Fracture?
A Jones fracture is a break in a specific area of the fifth metatarsal, the long bone on the outer side of your foot that connects to your little toe. Unlike other fractures of this bone, a Jones fracture occurs in a region with limited blood supply, making healing more complicated and prolonged.
This type of fracture is named after Sir Robert Jones, who first described it in the early 1900s after sustaining the injury himself.
Jones Fracture Mechanism of Injury
Jones fractures typically occur during sudden twisting or overloading of the foot, often without a direct blow. They are more common in athletes, dancers, or individuals involved in high-impact or repetitive activities.
The mechanism of injury for most Jones fractures involves:
- Inversion of the foot (rolling the ankle outward)
- Jumping or pivoting with the heel raised off the ground
- Overuse or repetitive stress to the outside of the foot
They may also occur as a result of poor foot biomechanics or inadequate footwear during physical activity.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of a Jones Fracture
The symptoms of a Jones fracture can mimic a sprained ankle, which is why proper diagnosis is essential. Common signs may include:
- Pain on the outside of the foot
- Swelling and bruising
- Difficulty putting weight on the affected side
- Pain that worsens with walking or physical activity
Diagnosis involves:
- Clinical examination to check for tenderness and swelling
- X-rays to identify the fracture location and confirm the diagnosis
- MRI or CT scans in cases where a stress fracture or delayed healing is suspected
Treatment Approaches for Jones Fractures
Treatment for Jones fractures depends on the severity and whether the fracture is displaced (moved out of place). Options include:
- Non-surgical treatment:
If the fracture is well-aligned and caught early, patients may be treated with immobilisation in a moon boot and modifications to weight-bearing for at 6–8 weeks. Crutches may be required during this period.
- Surgical treatment:
Surgery may be recommended for:
- Active individuals or athletes
- Displaced fractures
- Cases with delayed healing or non-union
Surgical fixation involves placing a screw into the bone to stabilise the fracture and promote healing. This may shorten recovery time and reduce the risk of reinjury.
Prognosis for Jones Fractures
Most Jones fractures heal well with appropriate care, but healing time is typically longer than other foot fractures due to the area’s limited blood supply.
- Non-surgical recovery: 6–10 weeks or longer, with gradual return to activity
- Post-surgical recovery: May allow earlier weight-bearing, but full return to sport usually takes 10–12 weeks
Delayed healing or non-union may occur in some cases, highlighting the importance of adhering closely to medical advice.
Role of Access Ortho in Diagnosing and Treating Jones Fractures
At Access Ortho, we offer fast, expert care for suspected Jones fractures:
- Immediate assessment, including referral for X-rays
- Specialised fracture management, including both non-surgical and surgical planning
- Close monitoring of healing progress, with repeat imaging if needed
- Rehabilitation support to ensure a safe and confident return to activity
Skip the long wait times at emergency departments. Our Brisbane and Ipswich clinics are designed to provide streamlined orthopaedic care when you need it most.