The Use of Diagnostic Ultrasound in the Follow-Up Management of a 25-Year-Old with a Fifth Metatarsal Fracture: Case Report

X-rays are commonly used for fracture diagnosis and follow-up management. X-rays have a limitation in cost, availability, and potential radiation to patients. Diagnostic ultrasound is an option for diagnosing and following up on fracture management without the potential for continued radiation exposure. This case report demonstrates the use of diagnostic ultrasound in the follow-up of a 25-year-old with a fifth metatarsal fracture at the 6-week mark and the 7-month mark. The ultrasound images identified the metatarsal fracture along with the bone callus formation in the healing process. Diagnostic ultrasound could be a consideration in the follow-up management of a fifth metatarsal fracture. Following up with this patient is critical in determining the healing process and/or potential issues of nonunion that are common in fifth metatarsal fractures. Future studies need to examine the reliability and validity of diagnosing fifth metatarsal fractures, as this case report only focused on the ability for follow-up management. As physical therapists commonly see patients with direct access, it is important for physical therapists to be able to understand what is happening at the skeletal level during fracture management.