Why does my heel hurt the most when I get out of bed in the morning?

Morning heel pain is often linked to plantar fasciitis, a common condition caused by inflammation in the foot’s arch. A podiatrist can help with long-term relief.

Do I need a podiatrist or an orthopedist for foot pain?

Podiatrists are foot and ankle specialists trained to treat everything from skin and nail issues to complex injuries and surgery. NES offers both podiatry and orthopedic care, depending on your needs.

Can a podiatrist help with broken toes or foot fractures?

Yes. NES podiatrists diagnose and treat foot and ankle fractures, offering imaging, bracing, casting, or surgery — all in-house.

How long should I wait before seeing a podiatrist for foot or ankle pain?

If your pain lasts more than a few days or keeps coming back, it’s time to see a podiatrist. NES offers same- and next-day appointments.

Who is the closest podiatrist who can see me today for ankle pain?

NES has multiple Portland-area podiatry locations and often offers same-day appointments. Use our booking tool to find the nearest available provider.

Comprehensive Guide to Foot and Ankle Fractures

The foot and ankle contain over a quarter of the bones in the human body and endure daily stress from weight-bearing and movement, making them especially prone to fractures that require expert care to avoid long-term complications.

Fractures in the foot and ankle are common yet complex injuries that demand prompt diagnosis and treatment. Among the most frequently fractured areas of the foot is the fifth metatarsal–the long bone on the outer edge of your foot connected to the little toe.

At Northwest Extremity Specialists, our Portland-area podiatrists provide advanced care for all types of foot and ankle fractures, from stress fractures to displaced breaks, to ensure an effective, complete recovery.

Understanding Fifth Metatarsal Fractures

Two common types of fractures occur in the fifth metatarsal:

Avulsion Fracture: This happens when a small bone fragment is pulled off by a tendon or ligament, often when the ankle is sprained. These fractures can be easy to overlook and can progressively get worse if not appropriately evaluated.
Jones Fracture: This type of break occurs in a part of the bone with poor blood supply. The lack of circulation makes the fifth metatarsal more prone to complications, and it can delay healing. A Jones fracture can be either a stress fracture (a tiny hairline break that occurs over time) or an acute (sudden) break. Jones fractures are caused by overuse, repetitive stress, or trauma. They are less common and more challenging to treat than avulsion fractures.

Other less common fracture types include mid-shaft, neck, and head fractures, usually the result of direct trauma or twisting injuries.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of Fifth Metatarsal Fractures

Symptoms of avulsion or Jones fractures are often the same. Both types of fractures typically cause pain, swelling, and tenderness on the outside of the foot. However, individuals with Jones fractures frequently report having more severe pain. In addition, the lack of blood flow presents a higher risk of healing complications with Jones fractures. Here are some common symptoms for both types of fractures:

Jones Fracture Symptoms

Sharp stabbing pain on the outer side of the foot
Swelling and tenderness of the affected area
Bruising and discoloration
Difficulty bearing weight or walking
Impaired balance and/or movement of the pinky toe

Avulsion Fracture Symptoms

Other Types of Foot and Ankle Fractures

There are several other types of foot and ankle fractures that are categorized based on severity, location, and displacement. It’s essential to get a professional and accurate diagnosis of your fracture in order to determine the most appropriate treatment approach. These are common fractures of the foot and ankle:

Simple vs. Compound Fractures

Stress Fractures

Tiny hairline cracks in the bone, usually caused by repetitive stress (e.g., running, jumping).
Stress fractures commonly occur in the metatarsal bones (forefoot).
If left untreated, stress fractures can worsen into complete fractures.
Difficulty bearing weight or walking

Stable vs. Unstable Fractures

Comminuted Fractures

Common Signs of Foot and Ankle Fractures

Fractures across the foot and ankle often present with similar signs:

Localized pain and tenderness

Swelling, bruising, or redness

Limited range of motion

Limping or inability to walk

Visible deformity or misalignment

Inability to bear weight

Seek immediate medical evaluation if you experience any of the above, especially if these symptoms occur as a result of trauma.

Diagnosis: When to See a Specialist

If you suspect a fracture, consult a foot and ankle specialist promptly. Your provider will:

Conduct a physical exam to assess pain, swelling, and alignment
Order imaging tests such as X-rays, and if necessary, MRI or CT scans, especially for complex cases like Jones fractures that may not appear on initial imaging

Prompt and accurate diagnosis is essential to prevent complications such as poor healing, reinjury, or chronic pain.

Treatment Options for Foot and Ankle Fractures

Whenever possible, we begin with nonsurgical approaches. These treatments are designed to reduce pain, promote healing, and improve function without the need for invasive procedures. Options may include:

R.I.C.E. Therapy

This first-aid protocol helps manage pain and swelling at home before receiving professional treatment:

Immobilization

For non-displaced or stable fractures:

Bone Stimulation & Regenerative Therapies

Especially helpful for Jones fractures or slow-healing bones:

Surgical Intervention

Surgical repair may be required for:

Procedures may involve screws, plates, or wires to realign and secure the bone. Your podiatrist will tailor the approach based on your injury and health needs, ensuring your surgery is followed by a personalized physical therapy program.

When To Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Seek urgent medical care if you experience:e

Severe pain that does not improve with rest

Obvious deformity or misalignment of the foot or ankle

Numbness, tingling, or a cold sensation in the foot

An open wound with visible bone (compound fracture)
Inability to move or bear weight on the injured foot

Delaying treatment for a foot or ankle fracture can lead to permanent complications, including chronic instability, arthritis, or improper bone healing.

Specialized Care in Portland for Lasting Recovery

At Northwest Extremity Specialists, our board-certified team are experts in treating fractures of the foot and ankle. Whether you require conservative care or surgical repair, we deliver comprehensive, personalized treatment plans using the latest techniques.

Don’t wait—contact your nearest Portland-area office today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward healing.