OBSOLETE: Osteochondritis of tarsal/metatarsal bone

Osteochondritis of the tarsal or metatarsal bone is a condition that affects the bones in the foot, specifically the tarsal bones (which make up the midfoot and hindfoot) and the metatarsal bones (the long bones in the front part of the foot). This condition involves inflammation and sometimes damage to the bone and its overlying cartilage, often due to disruption of the blood supply to a small area of bone. This process is also known as osteochondrosis or avascular necrosis when it affects these specific foot bones. Well-known forms include Köhler disease (affecting the navicular bone in children) and Freiberg disease (affecting the metatarsal head, usually the second metatarsal, in adolescents and young adults). Patients typically experience foot pain, swelling, and difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected foot. The pain may worsen with activity and improve with rest. In some cases, the affected bone may temporarily lose its normal shape before healing. The condition is most commonly seen in children and adolescents during periods of rapid growth. Treatment usually focuses on reducing pain and protecting the affected bone while it heals. This may include rest, activity modification, supportive footwear, orthotics, casting or bracing, and anti-inflammatory medications. In most cases, the bone heals on its own over time, especially in younger patients. Surgery is rarely needed but may be considered if conservative measures fail or if there is significant bone or cartilage damage. Note that this Orphanet entry is marked as obsolete, meaning it may have been reclassified or merged with other related conditions in current medical databases.

Bring these to your next appointment

• Q1.Which specific bone in my foot (or my child's foot) is affected, and what is the exact diagnosis?,How long is recovery expected to take, and when can normal activities resume?,Do I need a cast, walking boot, or special shoes, and for how long?,Are there any activities I should completely avoid during healing?,How often will follow-up X-rays or imaging be needed to track healing?,What signs should prompt me to come back sooner than my next scheduled visit?,Is surgery likely to be needed, and if so, what are the options?

Common questions about OBSOLETE: Osteochondritis of tarsal/metatarsal bone