October 2022

One of the most common heel pain complaints from children is from Sever’s disease. Fortunately, this ailment has a relatively short life span and does not result in long-term damage. Sever’s disease generally affects physically active children between the ages of 8 and 14. It is common among children who do a lot of running and jumping during sports activities. Also known as calcaneal apophysitis, Sever’s disease occurs when the calf's bones grow faster than the Achilles tendon that attaches them to the heel. This disparity causes the tendon to become tight and results in soreness in the heel. When the disparity in the growth plate is resolved, the pain goes away. Symptoms include limping, pain or tenderness in the heel while active, and swelling in the heel area. The first, and most important, way to treat Sever’s disease is to cease the activity causing it to occur. If after a few weeks, pain and swelling are still a problem, it is a good idea to seek the counsel of a podiatrist for further examination and other treatment options that may be necessary. 

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our doctors 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 Thousand Oaks, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

It may seem improbable, but riding a bicycle can cause immense foot pain. The main reason for this pain is that all the force expended during a ride goes through the soles of the feet. For that reason, especially if you ride often and for a long duration, heel and arch pain can develop. Cycling footwear and cleat position are often involved, along with other causes, such as plantar fasciitis. If plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the band of tissue that runs along the sole of the foot, is ignored, it also may result in calcium deposits. Biomechanical issues, such as ankle pronation, flat feet, or high arches can lead to Achilles tendonitis. Certain exercises before and after each ride can help to reduce arch soreness, and orthotics can go a long way toward prevention of biomechanical issues. In addition, wearing cycling shoes that fit properly can lower the risk of foot pain. For more information about custom orthotics and foot pain from cycling, please consult a podiatrist. 

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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

Plantar fasciitis is a highly widespread form of heel pain that occurs when the band of tissues under the arch of the foot (the plantar fascia) becomes inflamed. After contacting a podiatrist and receiving treatment for plantar fasciitis, there are several ways to gauge how you are recovering. First, it might be a sign that you are healing if the pain is starting to become localized instead of distributed throughout your foot and ankle. Additionally, pain from plantar fasciitis can be most pronounced when taking the first steps of the day. Therefore, if you notice reduced or diminished morning pain, this might be a sign that you are recovering. Lastly, you may be recovering from plantar fasciitis if you find that your normal range of motion in the feet and ankles is returning. Recovery times can vary from person to person. However, it commonly takes patients about six months to fully recover. If you have plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

As a diabetic, foot problems can become a major concern. The result of long-term high blood sugar levels often leads to neuropathy, which can endanger the health of the feet and lower limbs. A daily foot care routine is imperative to help avoid foot ulcers and other conditions that could lead to gangrene or limb removal. Experts recommend the following measures that can help to protect your feet. Reserve time each day to check the feet for sores, wounds, and cuts, especially those that seem to be taking a long time to heal. Wear shoes that fit properly and do not rub or pinch. Keep your feet elevated whenever possible. Do mild foot and toe exercises to keep them moving and encourage blood flow to the area. Check for signs of inflammation or infection by being aware of unusual changes in the temperature of your feet. Avoid wearing anything tight around the legs and ankles, as that can restrict blood flow. Also, avoid smoking, which increases the risk of serious problems. It is strongly suggested that as a diabetic you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist who is equipped to help manage foot-related complications from this disease.

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 one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our doctors 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

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

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 office located in Thousand Oaks, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.