Podiatry
Freiberg's Infarction
A rare condition where a metatarsal head temporarily loses its blood supply, causing forefoot pain, stiffness, and joint changes.
Freiberg's infarction is a rare condition in which the metatarsal head — the end of the bone shaft that connects to the toe — temporarily loses its blood supply and dies. This leads to erosive flattening of the joint surface, loss of joint function, and arthritis. It usually affects teenage girls between the ages of 11 and 18, as well as athletes. While the second toe is most commonly affected, the condition can also occur in the third or fourth toe.
The exact cause is currently unknown, but popular theories point to a combination of microtrauma, poor blood supply, and underlying systemic conditions. Associated conditions include diabetes, lupus, and disorders that increase blood clotting.
Risk factors
- Sports involving constant jumping, pivoting, or hard landings
- Flexible, unsupportive footwear
- Tight calf muscles
- A recent cortisone injection to the area
- A history of systemic conditions such as diabetes or lupus
Common symptoms
- Forefoot swelling
- A feeling of walking on a stone
- No recollection of a specific injury
- Pain that worsens with walking barefoot, jumping, standing on your toes, or wearing high heels
- Changes in toe shape or alignment
- Stiffer movement in the affected toe
Assessment & treatment
Treatment
Management typically begins with imaging to confirm the diagnosis — this may involve X-rays or a further referral for MRI, as an X-ray alone isn't always sufficient. Treatment aims to relieve symptoms and slow progression. Most patients with mild cases respond well to conservative treatment, such as orthotics and footwear changes.
For more advanced cases, or where conservative treatment hasn't been successful, surgery may be necessary. Your clinician will assess your condition and advise on the appropriate options, which may include:
Treatment may include:
- Splinting or temporary immobilisation
- Referral for imaging or to an orthopaedic surgeon
- Shockwave therapy
- Orthotics to prevent foot deformity
- Changes to footwear
- Physiotherapy
How Simba Health treats Freiberg's Infarction
Our podiatry clinicians assess the cause of your symptoms and build a personalised, evidence-based plan to treat Freiberg's Infarction. With no GP referral required and initial appointments from $109, you can start care quickly at a clinic near you.
Podiatry near you
Frequently asked questions
No. You can book podiatry directly at Simba Health with no GP referral, so you can start treatment for Freiberg's Infarction without delay. Initial appointments start from $109. A referral may still help if you're claiming under a care plan.
Freiberg's Infarction is treated under our podiatry service, with initial consultations from $109 and lower follow-up fees. We keep our pricing transparent so you know what to expect before your appointment.
Our podiatry clinicians assess the underlying cause of your symptoms, then build a personalised, evidence-based treatment plan for Freiberg's Infarction. Many people start to notice improvement once the right plan is underway.
Not sure this is right for you?
Call us and we'll help you find the right service and clinician for your needs.
(02) 9188 0544