Well, don't lie to me but tell me it's just momentary discomfort :-). Before I did my big 20+ miler today, the 1st metatarsal (big toe) of my left foot is a dull sore. To be noted, that part of my foot didn't noticeably change in discomfort durin the run.(or I was focusing on everything else that hurt) On the underside of my left foot, there's a bruise. Whilst my right foot is well behaved, I have a significant overpronation problem in my left foot. I'm absolutely sure they are interrelated.
Are stress fractures common in the 5th metatarsal? Is this type of discomfort normal and how long till I can jump back into the game? I have a marathon in 5 weeks from yesterday and one more long run planned. Do advise.
I can only tell you from my experience. I had a similar problem after running a full marathon. I went to a university hospital and the medical student (seemed like it at least) looked at me and told me, ‘yes, it is a stress fracture’. i didn’t really belive him so i went to see a podaitrist and she told me i just sprained one of the little ligaments in my foot. so i just had to rest for one week. then i was fine. so she was right. anyway, if the pain gets worse, then you should go to see a podaitrist but for now i think you can just see what happens for the next few days. again, it’s just my opinion.
The most common signs and symptoms of stress fracture include: A dull ache following physical activity Swelling Pain that decreases with rest and increases with activity Pain that occurs earlier in your workout each successive workout Pain that increases over time A spot that feels tender or painful when you apply pressure
See a doctor because the only way to know for sure is a bone scan (they’ll do xrays first and possibly an MRI).
You may have a sfx, you may not. I had a fibular sfx and it started out as that dull ache, and after running on it more it turned into sharp pain. Most likely if you have a sfx within a few days you will be in excruciating pain when you run on it.
Make sure you’re in a pair of good stability shoes that can correct the pronation of your foot. It may be you just need orthotics or a better pair of shoes.
Well, I think I might have been a bit frantic last night. There is no swelling nor any noticeable discomfort today. I have a moderate control shoe right now and do wear orthotics (commercial, not custom). I appreciate the information since I’ve never experienced pain in my bones (well minus the fractures in my fingers a couple times) so I just don’t know what to expect. Today is off and I’ll see how we do tomorrow.
I had bad shin splints this year that I was convinced was a stress fracture. I swore I could even feel the break in my leg. I put off going to the doctor for a week or so because I just couldn’t stand the thought of getting that news. Then, I went in and he told me it was just shin splints, put me on a good stretching program and I had an enjoyable end of the tri season. Glad to hear you’re feeling better. Some of these minor injuries sure can seem a lot worse.