Understanding Sever's Disease in Children

Children's feet change as they grow, and some changes can lead to temporary but painful conditions. One of the most common causes of heel pain in active children is Sever's disease, also called calcaneal apophysitis. Despite its name, it is not an illness or infection. Instead, it develops when the growth area at the back of the heel becomes irritated during periods of rapid growth. This condition is most often seen in children and teenagers who participate in sports that involve running or jumping. Common symptoms include heel pain, tenderness, and discomfort during physical activity. Some children may also limp or avoid putting full weight on the affected foot. Because heel pain can have several causes, a professional evaluation is important to determine the correct diagnosis.

 

Sever's disease often develops when the heel bone grows faster than the surrounding muscles and tendons can adapt. The tight tissues pull on the growth plate, leading to irritation and inflammation. Children who are physically active or participate in high-impact sports may have a greater risk of developing this condition. Although the problem usually improves once the growth plate matures, ongoing pain can interfere with sports, school activities, and normal walking. A comprehensive podiatry examination helps identify the source of heel pain while ruling out fractures or other foot conditions. Early diagnosis also allows appropriate treatment to begin before symptoms become more limiting.

 

A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating children's foot conditions, including Sever's disease. Professional care focuses on reducing heel pain, improving foot function, and helping children return to normal activities as safely as possible. Treatment is based on each child's symptoms, activity level, and stage of growth. Regular follow-up visits also allow healing to be monitored while ensuring the condition continues to improve. If your child has persistent heel pain or difficulty participating in everyday activities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our doctors from Toe-Tal Health Solutions. 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 Southern California and Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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When Foot Swelling Requires Podiatry Treatment

Swelling of the feet is a common problem that can make standing, walking, and wearing shoes uncomfortable. It occurs when extra fluid builds up in the tissues of the feet, causing them to appear larger than normal. Foot swelling may develop after an injury or prolonged standing. It can also be linked to certain medical conditions that affect circulation or joint health. Many people notice tightness, aching, or tenderness along with the swelling. Others may have stiffness that limits normal movement or makes daily activities more difficult. Because swollen feet can have many causes, a professional evaluation is important to determine the source of the problem and the most appropriate treatment.

 

In some cases, swelling affects one foot, while other conditions cause both feet to become swollen. Persistent swelling may place added stress on the joints and soft tissues, making it more difficult to maintain normal mobility. Pain, skin changes, or difficulty bearing weight may indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires medical attention. A thorough podiatry evaluation helps identify whether the swelling is related to an injury, inflammation, or another foot problem. If needed, additional testing may be recommended to better understand the cause. Early diagnosis can help prevent complications and support better long-term foot health.

 

A podiatrist specializes in evaluating swollen feet and identifying conditions that affect foot structure and function. During an examination, the podiatrist assesses your symptoms, foot mechanics, and overall mobility to develop a personalized treatment plan. Professional care focuses on reducing discomfort, improving movement, and addressing the underlying cause of the swelling. Early podiatry care may also help prevent worsening symptoms and reduce the risk of long-term complications. If swelling of the feet is causing pain, limiting your mobility, or becoming more frequent, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our doctors of Toe-Tal Health Solutions. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

  • Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
  • Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
  • Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
  • Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
  • Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Southern California and Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Foot Changes During Pregnancy

Foot changes during pregnancy occur as the body adapts to support a growing baby. Increased weight, hormonal changes, and shifts in posture can place extra stress on the feet and lower limbs. These changes can affect balance, walking patterns, and overall foot comfort. During pregnancy, hormones that help prepare the body for childbirth can also loosen ligaments throughout the body, including those that support the feet. Understanding these changes can help expectant mothers protect their foot health.

Symptoms of pregnancy related foot changes may include swelling, arch discomfort, heel pain, and increased foot size. Many women notice that shoes feel tighter or that their feet appear wider. As the arches become more lax, the feet may flatten slightly, causing additional strain on muscles and joints. Structural changes in the lower limbs can also affect alignment, leading to discomfort in the ankles, knees, or hips. These symptoms are often more noticeable later in pregnancy when weight and pressure increase.

Several risk factors can contribute to foot pain and structural changes during pregnancy. Added weight places more pressure on the feet, increasing stress on the arches and joints. These changes may happen more noticeably during a first pregnancy because the body is experiencing new physical demands. Women with previous foot problems, poor footwear choices, or existing alignment concerns may have a higher risk of discomfort. The combination of hormonal changes and increased body weight can create conditions that affect normal foot function.

Supporting foot health during pregnancy involves wearing properly fitted shoes with adequate cushioning and arch support. Avoiding prolonged standing and elevating the feet can help reduce swelling. Gentle stretching and maintaining healthy movement may also improve comfort. Monitoring changes in foot structure and addressing pain early can prevent worsening symptoms. If you have foot pain during your pregnancy, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our doctors from Toe-Tal Health Solutions. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

  • Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
  • Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
  • Wear shoes with good arch support
  • Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
  • Elevate feet if you experience swelling
  • Massage your feet
  • Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Southern California and Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Ankle Pain Caused by Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome develops when a nerve on the inside of the ankle becomes squeezed or irritated as it passes through a narrow space called the tarsal tunnel. This is similar to wrist pain caused by carpal tunnel syndrome. The tunnel is formed by bone and strong bands of tissue that protect the nerve. When pressure builds inside this area, pain and other symptoms occur. Patients frequently notice burning, tingling, or numbness that starts near the inside of the ankle and travels into the heel or the bottom of the foot. Some people also feel sharp pain while walking or standing for long periods of time. Eventually, discomfort can continue even while resting. Tarsal tunnel syndrome can result from swelling, a cyst, arthritis, or changes in foot structure that place extra pressure on the nerve. 

A podiatrist begins by asking about symptoms and examining the foot and ankle. Gentle pressure over the affected nerve can reproduce tingling or pain that travels into the foot. The podiatrist also checks strength, feeling, and movement to look for signs of nerve irritation. Imaging tests, like an MRI scan, can reveal swelling, cysts, or other problems pressing on the nerve. Nerve tests can measure how well signals travel through the affected area. An accurate diagnosis is important because tarsal tunnel syndrome can resemble other conditions, including plantar fasciitis, and each problem requires a different treatment plan.

Treatment focuses on relieving pressure on the affected nerve and correcting the cause whenever possible. A podiatrist can recommend custom orthotics that improve foot alignment or prescribe a brace that reduces stress on the nerve. Treatment also includes injections when inflammation is present. Early care can help prevent lasting nerve damage and improve comfort while walking and standing. If you have inner ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat tarsal tunnel syndrome.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our doctors from Toe-Tal Health Solutions. Our doctors 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:

  • Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
  • Ankle sprains
  • Broken ankles
  • Achilles tendinitis
  • Achilles tendon rupture
  • Stress fractures
  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome
  • Plantar fasciitis

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 office located in Southern California and Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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