Should I take NSAIDs when I have a 4th metatarsal stress reaction?

If you get a metatarsal stress reaction, you might be confused for a number of reasons. First You are probably trying to figure out whether or not it is really just a subtle stress fracture or, if it is something more ominous? 

Second, you are also probably trying to figure out how to make the pain go away as fast as possible so you can get back to running. 

Last night I was talking to a physician who referred a runner who had a fourth metatarsal stress reaction. 

She wanted to know if it really was a good idea or a bad idea for her to take something like ibuprofen or some other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug which we call NSAIDs.

Should I take NSAIDs when I have a fourth metatarsal stress reaction? 

Well, that is a great question and that is what we're talking about today on the Doc On The Run Podcast.