Fifth Metatarsal Avulsion Fracture Physio Singapore
An avulsion fracture of the fifth metatarsal is a common foot injury caused by ankle twisting. Physiotherapy helps reduce pain, restore walking, and prevent long-term instability.
What is an Avulsion Fracture of the Fifth Metatarsal?
An avulsion fracture of the fifth metatarsal occurs when a small piece of bone is pulled away from the outer edge of the foot. This typically happens at the base of the bone near the little toe.
It is a common injury during sudden ankle twists, especially when the foot rolls inward. Although it may feel like a severe ankle sprain, the injury involves the bone and requires proper management.
If you are looking for foot injury physiotherapy in Singapore, ACE Physio Sports provides structured rehabilitation to help you recover safely and return to full activity.
How Does This Injury Happen?
This injury usually occurs during:
- Sudden ankle rolling while walking or running
- Sports involving quick direction changes
- Landing awkwardly from a jump
- Losing balance on uneven ground
When the ankle turns inward, a tendon on the outside of the foot pulls strongly on the bone, which can cause a small fragment to break away.
Common Symptoms
You may notice:
- Pain along the outer side of the foot
- Difficulty putting weight on the foot
- Swelling near the base of the little toe
- Bruising around the outer foot
- Tenderness when pressing the area
- Feeling unstable while walking
Many people describe it as “pain on the outside of the foot when walking” or feeling like they cannot step properly.
What Should I Do?
- Avoid putting weight on the injured foot
- Use crutches if walking is painful
- Apply ice regularly to reduce swelling
- Keep the foot elevated when resting
- Seek physiotherapy assessment early
Early management helps prevent delayed healing and recurring problems.
What Shouldn’t I Do?
- Do not continue walking through pain
- Avoid running or sports activities
- Do not apply heat in the early stage
- Avoid alcohol in the first few days (can increase swelling)
- Do not ignore persistent pain or swelling
Physiotherapy Treatment
Physiotherapy is essential for proper healing and safe return to activity.
At acephysiosport.com, your treatment plan may include:
Early Phase (Pain & Protection)
- Advice on safe movement and weight-bearing
- Ice therapy to control swelling
- Gentle foot and ankle mobility exercises
- Support with crutches if needed
Recovery Phase (Restore Movement)
- Gradual return to weight-bearing
- Range of motion exercises
- Soft tissue techniques to reduce stiffness
- Foot and ankle activation exercises
Strength & Stability Phase
- Strengthening foot and ankle muscles
- Balance and coordination training
- Improving stability to prevent re-injury
- Walking pattern correction
Return to Activity Phase
- Functional movement training
- Sport-specific exercises
- Agility and control drills
- Gradual return to running or sports
At acephysiosport.com, every programme is tailored to your lifestyle, whether you want to return to daily walking or high-level sports.
Recovery & Healing Timeline
- Initial healing: 2–3 weeks
- Walking comfortably: 3–6 weeks
- Return to sports: 6–8 weeks
Recovery depends on injury severity and how well rehabilitation is followed.
Could There Be Long-Term Effects?
Most people recover fully without complications.
However, if not treated properly, you may experience:
- Ongoing foot pain
- Repeated ankle instability
- Weakness during walking or running
- Increased risk of future ankle injuries
Physiotherapy ensures full recovery and reduces these risks.
Why Choose ACE Physio Sports?
If you are looking for expert physiotherapy in Singapore for foot or ankle injuries, ACE Physio Sports offers:
- Personalised 1-to-1 treatment sessions
- Accurate assessment of foot and ankle injuries
- Structured rehabilitation plans
- Focus on long-term stability and prevention
- Convenient location near East Coast Road
We don’t just treat pain — we help you move confidently again.
Book Appointment
Don’t let foot pain slow you down.
👉 Book now at https://acephysiosport.com 📞 Call: +65 81535374
Start your recovery with expert physiotherapy at ACE Physio Sports.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my ankle fracture is healing properly?
Healing is tracked via X-ray at follow-up appointments. Signs of good progress include reducing pain, improving function, and callus formation visible on imaging. Your physiotherapist will guide you through each stage of loading the bone safely.
When can I start putting weight through my ankle after a fracture?
Weight-bearing timelines depend on fracture type, location, and whether surgery was performed. Your physiotherapist and surgeon will work together to guide this safely, with load progressively increased once adequate healing is confirmed.
Can physiotherapy help with stiffness and weakness after a ankle fracture?
Absolutely. Stiffness and muscle weakness are very common after fracture immobilisation. Physiotherapy uses gentle joint mobilisation, stretching, and progressive strengthening to restore full movement and prevent long-term limitations.
Ready to start your recovery?
Our specialist physiotherapists are here to help. Book a consultation today.
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