Is swelling around a fractured spot on the foot a serious concern?
Patient: Hi! About 16 weeks ago I fractured my fifth metatarsal on my left foot. This was confirmed by X-ray by my orthopedic surgeon and I was prescribed a stiff-soled-boot that I wore for about 12 weeks. Follow-up x-rays confirmed that fracture was aligned and bone was reforming slowly but surely. At my last doctor’s appointment (12 weeks) Dr. said I could stop wearing the boot and resume normal activity per my tolerance, which I have, avoiding jumping activities. I swim and walk daily for exercise. Very little pain since around 12 weeks, but my foot often felt/feels tight or cramped, especially on the top around my 3-5 metatarsals. In the last few days though, my foot has felt sore, appears a bit swollen in the same spot the bruise had formed when I initially broke it, and in that spot, I feel an odd “creaking” sensation when a flex my toes and a mild/moderate and dull pain when I walk and swim. The feeling is quite bothersome! Notes: 1. I am female, 36 and vegan. I take Vit D and Calcium supplements daily. 2. I am asking here because my doctor moved after my last appointment and I didn’t want to go through the trouble of seeing someone else in his practice if it isn’t serious. Doctor: Hi,  It may be due to hematoma or contusion following the trauma.  You can apply ice packs and take anti-inflammatory drugs like Serratiopeptidase for symptomatic relief.  If symptoms persist, better to consult an orthopedician and get an MRI scan done.  Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.  Regards, Dr. Shinas Hussain,  General & Family Physician