Freiberg disease

Freiberg disease, also known as a Freiberg infraction, is a form of avascular necrosis in the metatarsal. It generally develops in the second metatarsal, but can occur in any metatarsal. Physical stress causes repeated microfractures where the middle of the metatarsal meets the growth plate. These restrict circulation to the end of the metatarsal, causing the necrosis. It is an uncommon condition, occurring most often in young women, athletes, and those with abnormally long metatarsals. Approximately 80% of those diagnosed are women.