Broken metatarsal and now have awful sensations in my foot.

by Astrid
(Australia)

Seven weeks ago I broke my 5th metatarsal (right foot). I have been in a non weight baring cast which was removed three days ago. If I try to put any weight on my foot I get sensations like electric shock in my heel and along the outer side of my foot, as well as pain. I can place a little weight on my toes, but if I try to walk on my toes it hurts too. When standing, my right foot tends to go purple and there are times it becomes ice cold. I am getting frustrated as I thought I'd be able to walk unaided.
Is what I am experiencing normal?

Thank you.

Hi Astrid,
Generally when a cast is removed there should be minimal to no pain. Read my section on CRPS and have a doctor make sure your symptoms are not a sign of this condition. The fact that your foot is turning color and getting cold alerts me to this possibility.
Assuming you are not suffering from CRPS then you may require some physical therapy in order to get your foot back in "working order", this of course assumes the fracture is completely healed, which you did not mention.
Marc Mitnick DPM