In plain language
A fracture at the proximal fifth-metatarsal metaphyseal-diaphyseal junction, typically reaching the fourth-fifth intermetatarsal articulation; distinct from a tuberosity avulsion.
Clinical Significance & Management
Local blood supply raises concern for delayed union. Acuity, displacement, prior stress pain and activity demands guide protected non-weight-bearing care versus fixation. Athletes or nonunion cases more often consider surgery.
Symptoms & Clinical Presentation
Focal lateral foot tenderness, swelling or bruising
Weight-bearing pain, sometimes preceded by stress pain
Etiology & Injury Mechanisms
- Adduction/twisting or lateral loading
- Repeated running/jumping and mechanical factors
Diagnostics & Imaging Guide
Radiographs for zone, displacement and sclerosis
Selected MRI for occult stress injury or CT for union
Treatment Options
Cast/boot, prescribed loading restriction and follow-up
Risk-based fixation; assess bone health and grafting options for delayed union
Rehabilitation Milestones & Timeline
Rehabilitation depends on the diagnosis, procedure and associated injuries. Progression requires assessment of healing, symptoms and function; elapsed time or a single test cannot determine readiness for sport.
Protect
Restrict loading and impact by stability
Recover
Restore gait, calf strength and balance when healing permits
Impact
Use imaging, tenderness and graded response; monitor refracture risk
Evidence-Based Clarifications
Not every proximal fifth-metatarsal fracture is a Jones fracture. A screw or pain relief does not prove readiness for impact.
Sources & References
Jones Fracture
American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS)
Fractures of the Fifth Metatarsal
American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS)
Educational clinical definitions synthesized from AAOS, Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic, and HSS. Individual diagnosis and surgery require professional medical evaluation.
Publication date
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