Which statement best describes the March fracture?

Which statement best describes the March fracture?

• A. It is a flection fracture of the 5th metatarsal
• B. It is a fracture of the calcaneus
• C. It is a dislocation of the ankle
• D. It describes a stress fracture of the 2nd or 3rd metatarsal commonly called March fracture

Answer: (D)

March fracture is a stress fracture of the metatarsal shaft, most often the second or third metatarsal, caused by repetitive marching or running. It arises from accumulative microtrauma rather than a single acute event, which is why it tends to present with gradual forefoot pain and focal tenderness along the involved metatarsal. The name reflects its association with marching activities, common in runners and military recruits. Diagnosis is often clinical, with plain X-rays possibly appearing normal early on; MRI or bone scanning is more sensitive for early detection. Treat with rest from aggravating activity, protected weight bearing or immobilization as needed, and a gradual return to activity once healing is evident. It’s not a fracture of the calcaneus, not an ankle dislocation, and not a flection fracture of the fifth metatarsal.

March fracture is a stress fracture of the metatarsal shaft, most often the second or third metatarsal, caused by repetitive marching or running. It arises from accumulative microtrauma rather than a single acute event, which is why it tends to present with gradual forefoot pain and focal tenderness along the involved metatarsal. The name reflects its association with marching activities, common in runners and military recruits. Diagnosis is often clinical, with plain X-rays possibly appearing normal early on; MRI or bone scanning is more sensitive for early detection. Treat with rest from aggravating activity, protected weight bearing or immobilization as needed, and a gradual return to activity once healing is evident. It’s not a fracture of the calcaneus, not an ankle dislocation, and not a flection fracture of the fifth metatarsal.