In a concerning incident during the first innings of the Manchester Test, Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant suffered a severe blow to his right foot from a delivery by England pacer Chris Woakes. The impact left Pant hobbling and in visible discomfort, eventually requiring medical attention and transportation off the field via an ambulance cart.
Ponting draws parallels with his own injury experience
Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting, now a cricket analyst for Sky Sports, voiced his apprehensions following the incident. Ponting feared that Pant may have sustained a metatarsal fracture, a foot injury he personally experienced during his career.
“He couldn’t put any weight on his foot, and that’s always a worrying sign,” Ponting said. “The swelling appeared instantly, which is typical of a metatarsal injury. They’re small, delicate bones and can be very tricky when injured.”
What is a Metatarsal fracture?
The metatarsals are the five long bones that run through the midfoot, connecting the toes to the ankle. A metatarsal fracture refers to a break in one or more of these bones and can occur due to trauma (such as Pant's injury), overuse, or structural issues like high foot arches.
There are different types of metatarsal fractures, especially concerning the fifth metatarsal (on the outer side of the foot), which is most vulnerable:
Avulsion Fracture
The most common type, where a tendon or ligament pulls off a small piece of bone. Often mistaken for a bad ankle sprain.
Jones Fracture
Less common but more serious, Jones fractures affect an area with limited blood flow, making healing difficult. It can result from overuse or sudden trauma.
Midshaft or Dancer’s Fracture
This fracture affects the bone's neck or shaft and usually stems from a direct impact or twisting injury.
Signs to watch out for in foot injuries
According to Cleveland Clinic, typical symptoms of a metatarsal fracture include:
- A blow to your foot.
- High arches, resulting in excess pressure on the outside of your foot.
- Repetitive overuse.
- Rolling your ankle and foot inward (inversion injury).
- Twisting or rotating your foot due to an accident or sports injury.
- These were all symptoms seen in Pant’s case, raising concerns about the severity of his injury.
Treatment options
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the fracture, along with the patient’s age, health, and activity level:
Immobilization:
If the bones are not displaced, doctors typically recommend immobilization using a cast, boot, or stiff-soled shoe. Crutches may be used to avoid putting weight on the injured foot. Even some Jones fractures can heal non-surgically if caught early.
Surgical Intervention:
If the bone is displaced or does not respond to conservative treatment, surgery becomes necessary. Surgeons may use screws, rods, or plates to realign and stabilize the bone, especially in midshaft fractures or complex breaks.
Estimated recovery time for Metatarsal Fractures
Recovery timelines vary based on the type of fracture:
Avulsion fractures often heal within 6 to 8 weeks.
Jones fractures may take longer, especially if surgery is required- sometimes up to 3 months.
Midshaft fractures also require extended rest and rehabilitation.
During recovery, reducing swelling with ice, elevating the foot, and avoiding pressure are essential for faster healing.
