When a teenage athlete suddenly limps off the field complaining of pain in the ball of the foot, it is easy to assume a simple bruise or another mild injury. In reality, that ache could be a signal that the growth plate of a developing bone is in trouble. Knowing the early warning signs of Freiberg’s disease can protect your child from long-term joint damage and keep them moving with confidence.
At Sweeney Foot & Ankle Specialists, Dr. D. Sean Sweeney, DPM, FACFAS, and Dr. Christy Leahey, DPM, FACFAS, bring more than 20 years of trusted pediatric and sports medicine experience to families across Greater Houston. Voted Best Podiatrist in The Woodlands by Living Magazine every year since 2012, our team blends compassion with leading-edge technology to safeguard your child’s foot health.
What Is Freiberg’s Disease?
Freiberg’s disease is a condition in which the growth plate of a metatarsal bone, most often the one behind the second toe, loses its blood supply and begins to flatten. It typically appears in adolescents aged 13 to 15 and is about three times more common in girls than in boys. Because it can develop without a memorable injury, many families are caught off guard by the sudden onset of pain.
Recognizing the Symptoms
- Pain in the ball of the foot, especially with walking or running
- Swelling and tenderness near the base of the second toe
- Stiffness in the affected joint
- A noticeable limp or change in gait
How Freiberg’s Disease Is Diagnosed
Diagnosis begins with a thorough physical exam, where your provider checks for swelling and pinpoint tenderness. X-rays are the primary imaging tool and may reveal a flattened metatarsal head, although early changes can be subtle. A vibrating tuning fork placed against the suspected site is a simple, effective way to detect bone or growth plate injury, since pain on vibration often indicates an underlying problem.
Treatment Options
The goal of treatment is to relieve pressure on the affected bone so it can heal and continue to develop properly. Depending on severity, your care plan may include:
- Activity modification and protected weight-bearing with crutches
- Custom orthotics designed to offload the painful metatarsal
- In-office physical therapy to restore strength and mobility
- MLS laser therapy to reduce pain and inflammation while accelerating tissue repair
- Surgical intervention if arthritis develops, which may include joint reconstruction
Left untreated, Freiberg’s disease can lead to permanent joint damage and painful arthritis, making prompt evaluation essential.
Why Choose Sweeney Foot & Ankle Specialists for Freiberg’s Disease in The Woodlands, TX?
Families across The Woodlands and Magnolia trust Sweeney Foot & Ankle Specialists because we combine warm, patient-centered care with advanced technology. Our practice offers FDA-cleared MLS laser therapy with an 85 to 90 percent efficacy rate for pain and inflammation, custom orthotics tailored to your child’s growing foot, and in-office physical therapy for convenient, coordinated recovery. With prompt appointments for urgent concerns and a 14-year streak as Living Magazine’s Best Podiatrist, you can feel confident that your child is in expert, compassionate hands.
Protect Your Child’s Active Future
Early intervention is the key to preventing lasting damage from Freiberg’s disease. With accurate diagnosis, conservative treatment, and innovative technology, your child can return to sports, school, and play without lingering pain. Schedule a consultation with Sweeney Foot & Ankle Specialists at our The Woodlands office at (281) 292-4944 or our Magnolia office at (281) 789-4956 and give your young athlete the expert care they deserve.