Is Freiberg’s Disease Affecting Your Son or Daughter?

There are sections of bones that are known as growth plates located throughout the growing body. There is a growth plate in the metatarsal bones, the long bones that run along the foot and connect with the toes. Freiberg’s diseaseoccurs when a series of microfractures develop in this growth plate and disrupt the circulation in the bone, leading to a loss of blood flow and eventually to a condition known as avascular necrosis(cellular death) in the head of the bone. 

Freiberg’s disease can be difficult to diagnose. Symptoms include pain in the forefoot, joint stiffness, unexplained calluses, swelling, and limping. 

There is a lack of clear consensus in the medical community as to what exactly causes Freiberg’s disease, but there are three common underlying risk factors:

Repetitive stress. Athletes are at increased risk of contracting Freiberg’s disease. Runners, football players, and dancers are among the athletes who regularly experience the condition.

Anatomical foot anomaly: In many cases, the second toe is longer than the first, which means that it bears more weight and pressure than intended. This can create a wide range of issues, including Freiberg’s disease. 

Adolescent females experience Freiberg’s disease more often than their male peers do.

If your child is exhibiting symptoms of Freiberg’s disease, the best thing to do is to schedule a visit with your foot doctor. With years of specialized training and experience, your podiatrist is the best-qualified medical professional to treat any issues related to your child’s feet, ankles, or lower legs. If your doctor diagnoses Freiberg’s disease, she or he will have numerous treatment options available including rest, immobilization with a cast or boot, prescription and over-the-counter medication, and custom orthotics for comfort and support. Surgery is infrequently required but is sometimes necessary to debride the head of the degrading bone.

Are you worried about Freiberg’s disease, or anything else related to your child’s podiatric health? Call Advanced Feet and Ankle Care at (732) 679-4330 today to schedule a visit with Jason Grossman, DPM in our comfortable and convenient Old Bridge and Sayreville offices. Dr. Grossman will conduct a thorough examination culminating in an accurate and specific diagnosis, then work with you to create an individualized and effective plan for treatment and follow up care.