Metatarsal fracture just the start of my problems!

Hello,

I broke my 5th metatarsal just before Christmas & I had a half pot on for 2 weeks, then a full pot on for 8 weeks, coming off early in March.

I had a bone density scan a couple of weeks ago & it shows I have Osteopenia. This has shocked me as I don't smoke (had a few in my teens--nothing since 17) & I have kept very fit doing tap, jazz, stage, aquafit, swimming, hiking, tai chi/quiqong to say the least.

I too am 56, but I do have chronic asthma--have had it for over 10 years & I believe the inhalers might be responsible.

I would ask the advice of your podiatrist. They seem more clued up that the Doctors.

 

Hi,

I replied to your msg as an unregistered guest.

 

Hi Gillian, sorry for not replying, I didn't get notification and had given up on anyone replying. I am still battling with my foot, mostly ankle. After 2 months in a boot and 1 month struggling with walking, my final xray 3 months after fracture showed extreme osteopenia in my foot! It is amazing that it can come on so quickly. My girlfriend was under extreme stress in her life and lost a lot of weight and ended up with osteoporosis so quickly. I recently had a bone density as well showing osteopenia. Trying to lift weights and still trying to walk. A visious circle. Walking hurts, not walking will make bone density of foot worse and might cause more pain. Use weights and eat lots of calcium rich vegies. I too am usually fit with hiking walking dog 1.5 hrs each day and yoga. Feeling useless at the moment and can only have paracetamol for pain.

Does anyone know if the bone density loss in a foot would cause more pain in walking, especially around ankle?

 

Hi Annette,

I would visit your podiatrist if I were you. I thought I was messed about a bit, but your situation is ridiculous.

Since my break I have noticed my foot doesn't sit in my slip ons properly, sliding to one side. When I next see my GP I am going to ask to see a podiatrist.

I think they should've operated on my foot. The break was a nasty one & the nurse at A & E said it needed pinning. She'd been there 18 years & was surprised they weren't keeping me in to do it. I think it was down to the weather & them having so many patients with broken bones. We had thick snow & icy conditions at the time. I injured mine falling down the stairs.

Take care Annette & I hope you get it sorted soon.
Gillian

 

Hi, It registered me as a new guest again. I've read back & noticed about the pain in your foot. I am still having a lot of pain in my foot & I know osteopenia is not in my foot or legs. I have it in my lower spine & I've been having aching in that area for months--I just put it down to my age.

I hope you get it sorted soon. Like you--I am a hiker & love to walk. I still manage it but I suffer after.