ISELIN'S DISEASE | WA HEALTH GROUP
What is Iselin’s disease?
Iselin’s disease is a painful inflammation of the growth plate at the base of the 5th metatarsal.
Growth plates are an area of cartilage at the ends of the bone found in children and young adolescents which is softer and more vulnerable to injury than mature bone. Growth plates eventually develop into bone as the child/adolescents develop into an adult.
Children and adolescents who conduct excessive activities are more likely to experience the symptoms of Iselin’s disease.
Symptoms of Iselin’s disease?
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Pain along the outer edge of the midfoot.
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Aggravated by sports and reduces with rest
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Limping
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Swelling and redness on the outside edge of the foot
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A bump on the outer edge of the foot.
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Pain with turning your foot out.
Factors that contribute to Iselin’s disease?
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Most common in physically active boys and girls between the ages of 8 to 13.
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Overuse injury due to repetitive tension e.g. running and jumping
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Common in soccer and basketball players, gymnasts, dancers and other sports with repetitive inversion.
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How Is Iselin Disease diagnosed?
Iselin disease can be diagnosed through clinical testing as well as radiology imaging. Some diagnostic tools include:
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X-rays of the feet to check for growth plate inflammation and abnormalities.
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Pain on palpation of the base of the 5th metatarsal area.
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Pain with resisted eversion of the foot.
Treatment for Iselin’s disease
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Rest from painful activities.
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Applying ice or cold packs to the area.
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Stretching including calf stretches.
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Making sure that you are wearing supportive footwear.
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Orthotic therapy to offload the lateral foot.
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Immobilization in severe cases.
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Surgical excision if it does not resolve with immobilization and other conservative management (rare).
If you believe you might have Iselin's disease get in touch with our team or book a Podiatry Consultation. We're here to help.