Irritation of the growth plate on the heel can occur in young and teenaged children from participating in running and jumping activities. This is a condition that is referred to as Sever’s disease, and it can cause severe pain and discomfort. Childhood and adolescence is a time of life when the bones in the leg can grow faster than the muscles and tendons, possibly causing heel conditions. Some of the symptoms that can be associated with Sever’s disease include heel pain after arising in the morning and difficulty walking and running. It is suggested that your child stop the activity that may have caused this condition, and mild relief may be found when specific stretches are performed. If you notice that your child is limping or complaining of heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can properly 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 Michael Tomey, DPM from Cary Foot & Ankle Specialists. 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 Cary, NC. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

There are several reasons why bunions may develop. These can include genetic factors, wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, a foot deformity, or from a medical condition like arthritis. A bunion is defined as a bone that protrudes from the joint in the big toe, and may cause severe pain and discomfort. Additional symptoms of a bunion can consist of swelling and redness surrounding the affected joint, and the toe may be difficult to move. After a proper diagnosis is made, which generally involves having an X-ray taken and a physical examination of the foot is performed, proper treatment can begin. Orthotics may be prescribed and it is beneficial to wear shoes that have low heels and a wide toe box. If your bunion is very painful or causing difficulty walking, it is strongly suggested that you are examined by a podiatrist.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Michael Tomey, DPM of Cary Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

Patients who have experienced an Achilles tendon injury are often aware of the severe pain and discomfort this can cause. It can occur from repetitive irritation, or from a sudden injury. Additionally, wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, or having an abnormal foot structure may contribute to the onset of this type of injury. The symptoms that are often associated with this condition can consist of extreme tenderness in the heel, calf, and ankle, and it can be difficult to walk. It is beneficial to consult with a podiatrist if you have endured an Achilles tendon injury. A podiatrist can guide you toward the right treatments for you.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Michael Tomey, DPM of Cary Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Cary, NC. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

The condition that is referred to as ingrown toenails is quite a common ailment. It occurs as a result of the outer edges of the toenail growing into the surrounding skin. The big toe is often affected when this condition develops, and it may happen for several reasons. These can consist of genetic factors, certain medical conditions, and wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. Patients who are diabetic or who have poor circulation, may be prone to developing ingrown toenails. Some of the symptoms that are associated with ingrown toenails can include tenderness around the affected toe, swelling, and in severe cases, a discharge may be evident. Possible prevention techniques can include trimming the toenails correctly, and wearing shoes and socks that fit properly.  If you are afflicted with an ingrown toenail or seem to have reoccurring ingrown toenails, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Michael Tomey, DPM of Cary Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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