Initial treatment is typically in a cast, without any walking on it, for at least six weeks. If after this period of time healing has not occurred a further six weeks of casting may be recommended. Due to poor blood supply in this area, the break sometimes does not heal and surgery is required. In athletes, or if the pieces of bone are separated, surgery may be considered sooner. The fracture was first described in 1902 by orthopedic surgeon Robert Jones, who sustained the injury while dancing.