While most adolescent foot pain results from sports injuries or overuse, some cases point to a less common cause known as Mueller-Weiss syndrome. This condition involves the gradual breakdown of the navicular bone in the midfoot, leading to aching, swelling, and stiffness that worsens with activity. It often goes unnoticed until walking becomes difficult, or the foot begins to change shape. Because symptoms can mimic more common conditions, proper imaging and evaluation are essential for diagnosis. Early treatment focuses on reducing pressure with custom orthotics and activity changes, while advanced cases may require surgical correction. Persistent midfoot pain should never be ignored. If you or your child  is struggling with unexplained discomfort or limited movement in the foot, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can identify the cause and provide the right care to restore strength and mobility safely.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact one of our doctors of New Jersey and New York. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Little Silver, NJ and New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.