5th metatarsal fracture and pain

[KATEE0977]

Hi
I fractured my 5th metatarsal a week ago and have been using an aircast boot and crutches since then. The pain however is unbearable especially at night when i take the aircast off to sleep. I havent slept for a week as it is so painful when not in the cast. I realise that it is really early days yet - but is this amount of pain normal?? I actually hurts more now than when i had the accident.
Was hoping to go back to work next week - but think i am being a little too hopeful!

thanks

[janewhite1]

Did the doctor say it was ok to sleep without the cast?

Are you propping it up as much as possible during the daytime? Way up, above your heart?

Are you taking anti-inflammatories, ibuprofen, etc? They're really the best thing for bone pain.

You may want to check our foot disorders page for the experiences of others with similar fractures.

[walleye77]

I have a compression sock that I wear especially at night for pain and swelling. The pain of these fractures is something else, but once the swelling is under control the pain will go. Elevate and ice as much as possible. Staying off it for awhile might help too. Time is what is needed for healing.