Introduction:

Metatarsal fractures are the most common traumatic injuries of the foot, and those of the first metatarsal are the fourth in frequency. The functional treatment of metatarsal fractures consists of effective and early support, without limb immobilization.

Objective:

To compare the effectiveness of functional treatment in fractures of the first metatarsal with conventional treatments.

Methods:

An analytical, observational, retrospective, case-control study was conducted on 102 first metatarsal fractures over a period of eight years. The sample included patients of both sexes, between 16 and 65 years of age. Functional treatment was compared with orthopedic and surgical treatments. The fractures were classified according to location, therapeutic recommendation and treatment. The results were evaluated according to the duration of the temporary incapacity and the complications.

Results:

Forty eight fractures were treated with the functional method and 41 by offloading and immobilization. The thirteen patients with surgical indication criteria were operated by reduction and osteosynthesis. A shorter duration of disability and fewer complications were achieved with functional treatment than with conventional treatments.

Conclusions:

In recent years, the tendency to treat metatarsal fractures conservatively has increased and many authors recommend the functional method as the treatment of choice. This provides earlier healing and causes fewer complications than conventional treatments.

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