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Sever’s disease is a condition that affects children and young teenagers who participate in running and jumping activities. A noticeable symptom is heel pain, and this can occur when the muscles and tendons grow at different rates. Many parents may become aware of this foot condition when they notice their child is limping and complaining of heel pain. Relief is often sought at this time, despite the fact that children may outgrow this condition as the aging process occurs. Mild comfort may be found when the feet are rested as often as possible, in addition to wearing cushioned pads at the heel of the shoes. It is beneficial to temporarily stop the activity that caused this ailment, and replace it by performing specific stretches. An effective stretch is done by standing on a step, and lowering the heels one at a time until a gentle pull is felt. Sever’s disease can cause your child to have heel pain, and it is strongly urged that you consult a podiatrist who can help you and your child manage this condition.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Glenn Davison, DPM from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.
Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.
Symptoms
Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.
Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Union, NJ and New York . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
Sever's disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a medical condition that causes heel pain in children’s feet while they’re growing. Sever's disease occurs most commonly in boys and girls between the ages of 8 and 14.
Sever's disease occurs when the child’s growth plate, or the calcaneal epiphysis, an area attached to the Achilles tendon, is injured or when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. The result is constant pain experienced at the back of the heel and the inability to put any weight on the heel. This forces the child to bear weight on their toes while walking. When a toe gait develops, the child must change the way they walk to avoid placing weight on the painful heel. If this is not properly addressed, this can lead to further developmental problems.
The most common symptom of Sever's disease is acute pain felt in the heel when a child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping or running. Children who are active athletes are among the group most susceptible to experiencing Sever's disease. This is due to the extreme stress and tension placed on their growing feet. The rolling movement of the foot during walking or running and obesity are both additional conditions linked to causing Sever's disease.
The first step in treating Sever's disease is to rest the foot and leg and avoid physical activity. Over the counter pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory medications can be helpful for reducing the amount of heel pain. A child with Sever's disease should also wear shoes that properly support the heel and the arch of the foot. Consider purchasing orthotic shoe inserts which can help support the heel and foot while it is healing. Most patients with Sever's disease symptoms report an eventual elimination of heel pain after wearing orthotic insoles that support the affected heel.
Sever's disease may affect either one heel or both. It is important for a child experiencing heel pain to be examined by a foot doctor who can apply the squeeze test. The squeeze test compresses both sides of the heel in order to determine if there is intense pain. Discourage any child diagnosed with Sever's disease from going barefoot as this can intensify the problem. Apply ice packs to the affected painful heel two or three times a day for pain relief.
Exercises that help stretch the calf muscles and hamstrings are effective at treating Sever's disease. An exercise known as foot curling has also proven to be very effective at treating Sever's disease. When foot curling, the foot is pointed away from the body, then curled toward the body to help stretch the muscles. The curling exercise should be done in sets of 10 or 20 repetitions and repeated several times throughout the day.
Treatment methods can continue for at least 2 weeks and as long as 2 months before the heel pain completely disappears. A child can continue doing daily stretching exercises for the legs and feet to prevent Sever’s disease from returning.
An important benefit of frequently stretching the toes is to improve flexibility and range of motion. Strength is generally also improved, and this may contribute to reducing the risk of getting a bunion or plantar fasciitis. Many people enjoy practicing toe lifts. This is done by lifting the toes to the same height while standing, followed by holding this position for several seconds, and then repeating. An effective foot stretch is called the toe lift and spread, and is done while sitting with the feet on the floor. This is a similar stretch as the toe lift, and may be performed by using a resistance band around the toes, which can make it more challenging. Additionally, the big toe can be pulled by wrapping a towel around it while pulling the toe close to you. This can help to improve mobility in this toe, and the entire foot may benefit from it. If you would like additional information about the importance of stretching the toes, and how to accomplish this, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can guide you in the right direction.
Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Glenn Davison, DPM from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Stretching the Feet
Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.
It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Union, NJ and New York . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
There are many people worldwide who have heel pain. It can happen for a variety of reasons, and prompt medical treatment may bring relief. A heel spur is known to be painful, and occurs as a result of calcium deposits that build up on the bottom of the heel. In severe cases, this is often removed surgically. Plantar fasciitis is a common heel injury and happens when the band of tissue that is on the sole of the foot becomes inflamed. This is known as the plantar fascia, and it connects the heel to the toes. Plantar fasciitis can happen from wearing shoes that do not have adequate support, and from standing on hard surfaces for most of the day. Heel pain may also happen from a foot injury, such as landing awkwardly on the heel. Relief may be felt when the affected foot is elevated, and this may relieve a portion of the swelling that can accompany heel pain. Many patients find it helpful to perform specific heel stretches, including standing on a step, and lowering one heel at a time until a gentle stretch is felt. Heel pain is effectively treated by a podiatrist, and it is strongly advised that you contact this type of doctor who can diagnose the cause, and offer you the correct treatment techniques.
Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Glenn Davison, DPM of Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Causes of Heel Pain
Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.
Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.
Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.
Why Might Heel Pain Occur?
Treatments
Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.
If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Union, NJ and New York . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Shoes are worn for foot protection and it is not necessary to have your children or babies wear them while indoors. However, they are urged to wear them when walking outside. The feet can become stronger because the toes can grip the floor when they are indoors, and this will aid in balancing. Outside terrain can be full of sharp objects and the feet can easily get hurt if they are not well protected. Your child’s first milestones can consist of walking and crawling, and these are often reached while indoors. These can be easier to accomplish when shoes are not worn, giving the feet more ability to move freely. If you would like additional information about the benefits of walking inside without shoes, please ask a podiatrist who can answer any questions you may have.
Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Glenn Davison, DPM of Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.
Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.
Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.
Be watchful for any pain or injury.
Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Union, NJ and New York . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
A common foot condition among diabetic patients is a foot ulcer. Foot ulcers often occur from the inability to feel existing cuts, bruises, or scrapes which can be a result of neuropathy. Therefore, it is imperative to check the soles daily. Additionally, engaging in a gentle exercise routine may be beneficial in increasing circulation to the feet. A diabetic foot ulcer generally requires immediate medical care, and this may help to prevent an impending infection that could ultimately lead to amputation when left untreated. A diabetic foot ulcer can cause severe pain and discomfort, and it is suggested to refrain from putting any weight on the affected foot. Some people choose to wear shoes that are designed specifically for diabetic patients as well as compression wraps that help to improve circulation. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively treat and help you to manage this condition.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Glenn Davison, DPM from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Union, NJ and New York . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
The ankle is a complex system of bones, tendons, and muscles that connect the leg and the foot. If any one of those elements is compromised, it may result in pain whenever you take a step. If you spend a lot of time running, walking or jumping, some type of pain in the ankle is not uncommon. Most ankle pain is the result of an injury to a muscle, tendon, or ligament. Ankle pain may also be caused by medical conditions, including arthritis, gout, or peripheral neuropathy. An injury, such as a ligament sprain, a muscle strain, or a fractured bone, will likely cause ankle pain and inhibit your ability to walk normally. Pain in the back of the ankle may be connected to an injury of the Achilles tendon. This can become torn, ruptured or inflamed, and severe cases may prevent you from putting any weight on the foot. If you are experiencing ankle pain when you walk, it is a good idea to consult a podiatrist for an exam and a diagnosis. An appropriate treatment plan can then be put into action.
Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Glenn Davison, DPM from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Union, NJ and New York . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
The ankle joint is the point at which the bones of the leg and foot join. This joint is crucial because it is responsible for the foot’s mobility. Ankle pain is typically the result of inflammation from an injury to bones, joint space, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, or muscles in the area. Commonly associated symptoms with ankle pain are bruising, redness, numbness, stiffness, weakness, and tingling.
The most common causes of ankle pain are sprains and injuries. Ankle sprains are one of the most common musculoskeletal injuries. Sprains occur when the ligaments of the ankle become partially or completely torn due to sudden stretching. Sprains can occur on either the inner or outer sides of the ankle joint. Usually, these injuries occur when the ankle is twisted in an activity by stepping off an uneven surface. More specific causes include rheumatoid arthritis, gout, osteoarthritis, and Achilles tendonitis.
If you are experiencing ankle pain, you should consult with your podiatrist to choose the best method of care. Your doctor will conduct an examination of your ankle to determine the underlying cause of the pain.
Onychomycosis is the medical term for toenail fungus. While different organisms may be responsible for the infection, dermatophytes are the most common culprits by far. Toenail fungus is a bothersome condition that causes the nails to become discolored, thickened, distorted, ragged, crumbly, brittle, and even smelly in certain cases. Older adults are more prone to contracting a toenail infection because as we age, our nails become more brittle. Brittle nails can crack, which can make it easier for the fungal organism to creep inside the nail and infect it. If you detect any of the symptoms mentioned here, it is advised to seek the care of a podiatrist. Toenail infections can be very difficult to treat at home, given that the organism can burrow deep into the multiple layers of the nail or underneath the nail, making it difficult to target and kill effectively and permanently. Also, home treatment may be risky for people with weakened immune symptoms, diabetes, or circulatory issues.
If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Glenn Davison, DPM of Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Symptoms
Treatment
If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.
Prevention
In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.
In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Union, NJ and New York . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Hairdressers, restaurant line cooks and servers, teachers, and warehouse workers all have one thing in common—they spend a great part of their workday standing on their feet. This prolonged activity can result in chronic pain and discomfort in the feet, legs, and back. The first line of defense against foot pain caused from prolonged standing is proper footwear. Experts suggest shoes with a flatter heel that offer ample arch support. If you stand on hard surfaces, extra cushioning should be considered while choosing your shoes. Insoles or custom orthotics may be necessary to correct any ongoing conditions that may contribute to pain or fatigue. Shoes that breathe can help to prevent infections that thrive in moist environments. High heels should be avoided. It is also recommended that regular stretching exercises help blood circulate to the feet. Losing weight can reduce the pressure felt in the feet and legs, and it can help to keep joints healthy. Paying attention to your posture can aid in distributing your weight evenly and avoiding future leg and back problems. And finally, rest your feet when you can—taking breaks at work when possible and elevating them at home. If your foot pain becomes persistent, even when at rest, it is a good idea to consult a podiatrist for guidance and further treatment options.
While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Glenn Davison, DPM from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Working on Your Feet
Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.
Positive Changes
Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.
Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.
Eliminate Pain
Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.
Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen.
With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Union, NJ and New York . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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