Freiberg's Disease Can Be a Problem for Children
In the developing human body, there is a part of the bone called the growth plate. One set of these growth plates exists in the long metatarsal bones of the foot. When a series of tiny hairline fractures develop in these particular growth plates, Freiberg's disease occurs and loss of blood flow results. This diminished blood flow leads to a condition known as avascular necrosis (cellular death) in the head of the bone.
The actual cause of Freiberg's disease is unclear to foot doctors, but it's believed that repetitive stress is to blame. Podiatrists have also noted that, in many cases, the second toe is longer than the first, which results in a situation where that second toe has to take on more weight and pressure than it is intended to. Freiberg's disease is most commonly diagnosed during adolescence through college age. Girls and young women are more at risk than boys and young men.
Symptoms of Freiberg's disease include pain in the front of the foot, limited range of motion, and limping. It's an uncomfortable condition, but one that podiatrists are able to treat with great success.
If your child is complaining of pain in the foot, ankle, or lower leg, the first thing to do is to schedule a visit with your foot doctor. Many conditions exhibit similar symptoms and only your podiatrist can provide expert examination and accurate diagnosis. If it turns out that your child's discomfort is, in fact, due to Freiberg's disease, the doctor will have many treatment options available including:
rest
immobilization with a cast or boot
medication for pain and swelling
new shoes and orthotics to provide cushioning and support
surgery, but only in severe cases
Contact James C. Ricketti, DPM and let us address all your foot and ankle needs. Our board-certified podiatrist will tailor treatments based on your individual needs and with our state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment options, we’ll help you get back on your feet in no time! Call our office today at 609-587-1674 to make an appointment at our conveniently located Hamilton, NJ office.