Proximal articular fractures of the 5th metatarsal (Jones fracture)

These fractures go into the base of the 4th and 5th metatarsal articular surface.

This fracture is not a simple avulsion proximally or distal shaft fracture.

These fractures are often referred to as Jones fractures.

Inversion ankle or foot injury, often landing from a jump or rolling foot on uneven ground. This fracture can also be the result of a stress fracture that acutely occurs and may displace.

The peroneus brevis is eccentrically loaded, and it pulls on the base of the metatarsal, creating a tension failure fracture.

AP, lateral, and oblique x-rays confirm the diagnosis.

This fracture occurs in the relatively poorly vascularized metaphyseal bone between the insertions of the peroneus tertius and the peroneus brevis tendons, which combine to produce a deforming force, as illustrated. This fracture is otherwise known as “march fracture”. The poor blood supply and loading of the fracture by continuing muscle force even without weight-bearing increase the risk of delayed healing or non-union.

There are typically no associated injuries with these fractures.