Assessment of etiologic factors in the development of Freiberg's disease.

The etiologic factors in the development of Freiberg's disease are assessed in a consecutive series of 31 patients (33 feet). No evidence was found for the commonly held view that the condition is precipitated by trauma (in only 5 feet (15%), was there a history of injury to the foot). Similarly, pedobarographic studies failed to show high pressure at the affected metatarsal head. However, in 28 feet (85%), the affected metatarsal was the longest in the foot. The importance of this and other possible etiologic factors is discussed.