The apophyseal growth plate of the proximal 5th metatarsal is longitudinal in orientation. It appears on plain radiographs at age 12 for boys and 10 for girls and completes fusion within the following 2-4 years. Irregular ossification of the apophysis is common. The fifth metatarsal apophysis also may be bifid (bipartite). The apophysis of the base of the 5th metatarsal bone and its variants should not be confused with fracture.