Nonoperative Treatment of Stress Fractures of the Proximal Shaft of the Fifth Metatarsal (Jones' Fracture)

Early operative fixation of stress fractures of the proximal diaphysis of the fifth metatarsal has been advocated because of the high potential for delayed union, nonunion, and refracture. Case reports are given of three athletes with stress fractures of the proximal shaft of the fifth metatarsal who were treated nonoperatively and who returned to early athletic participation without recurrent symptoms or refracture. Treatment of this injury should be individualized because of the potential for nonunion and the ability of this fracture to heal.