Frieberg's Disease-What is it?

Each toe on the foot has a corresponding metatarsal bone, which is a longer bone that attaches the toes to the foot (along with various muscles, ligaments, and tendons). The second metatarsal bone is typically the longest metatarsal bone and also the one that moves the least with standing and walking. This predisposes it to some problems, and one of these issues is Freiberg's disease. The blood supply to the top or head of this bone can be disrupted, causing pain, bone changes, stiffness, and swelling. Patients may have the symptoms at rest or with activity, and teenage girls are the most common group to develop this condition. A combination of the length of this metatarsal, its lack of mobility, and persistent and repetitive microtrauma (running, marching, jumping are good examples) are the common causes. Conventional x-rays are taken to look at the contour of the bone, but MRI or CT scans may be necessary for an accurate diagnosis of this condition. Treatments typically include rest, immobilization, orthotics, shoegear changes, and on occasion, surgery. If you have foot pain, give us a call at 708-763-0580.