Osteochondrosis of the proximal phalanx of the hallux in adolescent footballers

Abstract

We report two cases with radiographic appearances of osteochondrosis in the proximal phalanx of the big toe in adolescent footballers. The radiological findings were those of initial fragmentation with subsequent healing of the epiphysis. This is the first report of osteochondrosis at this site. Local pain was accompanied by swelling with restriction of dorsiflexion of the metatarsophalangeal joint of the big toe. The condition was self-healing over a 2-4-year period. It needs to be included in the differential diagnosis of painful hallux in adolescent footballers. J Pediatr Orthop B 19: 379-381 (c) 2010 Wolters Kluwer Health vertical bar Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.