March Fracture

This is the name given to a metatarsal stress fracture and commonly affects the second metatarsal. It is common in army personnel and nurses.

Mechanism of Injury

Fractures usually arise as a result of overuse.

Clinical Features

The patient complains of foot pain and a tender lump can be palpated just distal to the mid-shaft of the metatarsal bone.

X-rays performed at an early stage may be normal and not show the presence of a fracture. X-rays conducted at a later stage show an abundance of callus production.