What is the best treatment for a tear in the foot ligament?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am reaching out on behalf of my 15-year-old daughter, who sustained a foot injury approximately two weeks ago. Her first symptom was pain. The pain occurs when she bears weight, engages in exercise, and even when lying down. It appears that the injury that initiated this pain happened around two weeks ago. She weighs about 152 pounds and is 5 feet 10 inches in height. Her medical report, including the MRI, indicates a partial tear in the medial metatarsophalangeal ligament of her first MTP joint. Based on these findings, I would like to understand the best treatment options. Should we consider immobilization with a moon boot? Would crutches be beneficial to keep weight off her foot, forearm, or underarm? And would strapping provide any additional support during her healing process?

Answer 1

Hi,

I am glad you chose icliniq for your medical-related queries.

I understand your concern.

As I can gather from your query, your daughter experienced an injury two weeks ago, and no immobilization was done at that time. Now she is in pain. In my opinion, she should use something that immobilizes her first metatarsophalangeal joint. Ligaments and tendons take a lot of time to heal due to their low blood supply. There are braces available, or you can have one custom-made, which are short and provide joint immobilization. Otherwise, a moon boot will be suitable. There is no need for complete non-weight bearing once the immobilizer is applied.

I hope this has helped you. Please feel free to reach me again, in case of further queries.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Here are my answers to the questions you asked earlier:

Well, I do not handle braces. There are separate podiatrists available who specialize in that. I usually refer my patients to them, and they take care of the rest. I am sure you would have one in your city. You need to look for one.
As I mentioned earlier, with a good immobilizer, she can walk without support. It might not be comfortable for her, but she will adjust. In my many years of practice, I have seen that children are better patients than adults, so do not worry about that.
Strapping and bracing serve the same purpose, but bracing is better.
Usually, it takes six weeks to three months, but in children, it may be somewhat shorter. I cannot give you the exact duration. During this period, it is better to avoid any sporting activities.
You will know the healing is progressing when her pain has significantly reduced.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at icliniq.

Thank you.