Praxis Medical Insights

Est. 2024 • Clinical Guidelines Distilled

Made possible by volunteer editors from the University of Calgary & University of Alberta

Last Updated: 10/21/2025

Management of Non-Displaced Proximal First Metatarsal Fracture

Immobilization and Monitoring

  • Obtain radiographic follow-up at 3-4 weeks to assess healing progress and ensure no displacement has occurred 1
  • Ensure the cast or boot is not overtightened, as this can compromise circulation, particularly important to monitor in young children 2

Special Pediatric Considerations

  • At age 3, the child has excellent bone remodeling potential, but this does not justify accepting displacement in first metatarsal fractures due to their functional importance 3
  • Monitor for any signs of vascular compromise, which would require immediate intervention 2
  • The child's family should be educated on signs of complications and the importance of maintaining immobilization despite the child's activity level 3

REFERENCES

1

Radiographic Evaluation and Splinting for Middle Phalanx Fractures [LINK]

Praxis Medical Insights: Practical Summaries of Clinical Guidelines, 2025

2

Management of Comminuted Fracture of Proximal Phalanx of Big Toe [LINK]

Praxis Medical Insights: Practical Summaries of Clinical Guidelines, 2025

3

recommendations for the care of pediatric orthopaedic patients during the covid-19 pandemic. [LINK]

The Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 2020