Sever's disease is a common cause of heel pain in growing children and adolescents, especially those who are active in sports. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes irritated due to repeated stress and tension on the Achilles tendon. This condition often develops during growth spurts when bones grow faster than muscles and tendons can adapt. Symptoms include heel pain, tenderness, and limping during or after activity. It can affect children who participate in running or jumping activities and those with tight calf muscles. A podiatrist can evaluate the condition, recommend stretching, supportive footwear, and activity modifications to reduce strain. If your active child has persistent heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat Sever’s disease.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Michele Kraft, DPM from Toes on the Go. 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 office located in Carmel, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition that can affect the feet and make movement difficult. Many people report sharp pain in the soles or tops of the feet. The pain can come and go. It may last for long periods and worsen with standing or walking. This foot pain can change the way a person walks and lead to strain in the ankles, knees, hips, and lower back. The cause of foot pain is not fully understood, but it may involve sensitive nerves and irritation of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that supports the foot. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, check motion, and identify pressure points. Treatment plans include custom orthotics, which are shoe inserts designed to improve support and reduce strain, along with supportive devices and monitoring. If you have foot pain as a result of fibromyalgia, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for help.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Michele Kraft, DPM from Toes on the Go. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Carmel, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.