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Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury
The Achilles tendon is considered to be the largest tendon in the body. Its function is to connect the heel to the calf muscles, and it is important for this tendon to maintain its flexibility and strength. It is typically put under pressure for the majority of the day as walking or running and jumping activities are completed. If an injury should occur to the Achilles tendon, it may become swollen and inflamed. This type of injury is known as tendonitis. A common symptom that can be associated with this condition may be pain in the heel and surrounding areas. If a rupture should occur, you may hear a popping sound emanating from the back of the heel. This is typically indicative of a serious injury, and medical attention should be sought as quickly as possible. If you have any pain in the back of the calf or in the heel, please consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat an Achilles tendon injury.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Sharon Pletcher of Pennsylvania. 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 State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Achilles Tendon InjuriesRisk Factors for Athlete’s Foot
Contracting athlete’s foot can happen to anyone, but there are some risk factors that increase the chance of contracting this inconvenient condition. Public places like locker rooms, showers, and swimming pools are breeding grounds for bacteria, so exposing your bare feet to surfaces in these environments could easily lead to athlete’s foot. Sharing footwear or towels with someone who has been infected can spread the infection, so it’s best to avoid sharing these items. Wet or sweaty feet are also at a higher risk than feet that are kept dry and clean, because bacteria thrive in moist environments. Minor skin or nail injuries, especially in tight closed-toe shoes are also a risk factor. If you think you might have athlete’s foot or would like additional information on how to prevent it, then it is suggested you speak with a podiatrist.
Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Sharon Pletcher from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.
Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
- Hydrate your feet by using lotion
- Exfoliate
- Buff off nails
- Use of anti-fungal products
- Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop
Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Athlete’s FootWhat Causes a Blister to Develop?
If you frequently run or wear shoes that are too tight, you may develop a blister. This may be a result of excess friction that occurs on a portion of the skin. A blister is defined as a small bubble that is filled with clear liquid and may naturally drain when the affected area of skin has healed. The top layer of the skin may become raw and painful, and the body’s natural defense mechanism may be to develop a blister, which will protect the skin that has been damaged. There may be additional reasons for blisters to develop, which may include allergic reactions, sunburns, or medical conditions such as impetigo. If a blister should become infected, it may appear to be yellow or green, in addition to possibly causing pain and discomfort. If you have a blister on your foot that will not heal, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist.
Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Sharon Pletcher of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.
What Are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
Symptoms
(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)
- Bubble of skin filled with fluid
- Redness
- Moderate to severe pain
- Itching
Prevention & Treatment
In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about BlistersChildren and Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is a condition that only affects children because their growth plate is still in the process of maturing. A majority of the children affected by Sever’s disease participate in sports and are between the ages of 10 and 15. This condition causes inflammation around the growth plate of the heel bone, which is still growing. The extra stress placed on the foot during sports activities is usually what triggers Sever’s disease. Pain becomes present in the back of the heel, which becomes more sensitive when pressure is applied during actions like running or jumping. Children might develop a minor limp, and they will usually complain of painful sensations in the heel area. If you think your child might have Sever’s disease, it is recommended you bring them to a podiatrist to learn more about the condition and how it can be treated.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Sharon Pletcher from Pennsylvania. 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 State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
Read more about Sever's DiseaseNoticeable Symptoms of Neuropathy
If you experience a tingling or numbing sensation in the nerves of the feet, you may have a condition that is referred to as peripheral neuropathy. This may occur as a result of genetic traits or medical conditions that may include thyroid disorders or diabetes. Additionally, the aging process or taking certain medications may add to the risk of developing neuropathy. Some of the symptoms that may be noticed can include weakness, clumsiness, or a loss of balance. Patients may feel cramping in the hands and feet or may feel dizzy while standing up from a chair. There may be medications that may be effective in treating neuropathy. If this condition occurs as a result of radiation or chemotherapy, successful recovery may take eighteen months or longer. If you are experiencing any symptoms of this condition, it is suggested to consult with a podiatrist who can properly guide you toward the correct treatment techniques.
Neuropathy
Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Dr. Sharon Pletcher from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.
What Is Neuropathy?
Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.
Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:
- Numbness
- Sensation loss
- Prickling and tingling sensations
- Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
- Muscle weakness
Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.
Treatment
To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.
Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about NeuropathyCauses of Gout
If you have ever experienced gout, you may be familiar with the intense pain and discomfort that often accompanies this condition. This typically occurs in the big toe and surrounding areas, where it may become swollen. It happens as a result of elevated uric acid levels in the blood, and may come from eating foods that are high in purines. These types of food may include red meats, shellfish, or drinks that have high fructose levels. The excess purines can cause crystals to form in the blood, and may lodge in the joints of the toe. Research has shown that occurrences of gout may be linked to obesity and high blood pressure, or people who are afflicted with kidney disease may develop this form of arthritis. It may be beneficial to rest the foot or apply cold compresses while an attack happens. If you are experiencing gout, it is advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Sharon Pletcher from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.
Symptoms
- Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
- Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
- Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
- Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility
Risk Factors
- Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
- Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
- Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
- Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
- Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
- Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout
Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about GoutSymptoms of a Broken Foot
If you have fallen or dropped a heavy object on your foot, the result may be a broken foot. There are typically noticeable symptoms that are associated with this condition, and these may include severe pain and discomfort that is felt while attempting to walk, and possible swelling and bruising. If the fracture is severe, and appears to be dislocated, it may be a result of bones that are out of alignment. Patients who have medical conditions which may include diabetes or peripheral neuropathy, may not notice if their foot is fractured, and this may be a result of a loss of sensation. Once a proper diagnosis is performed, which typically consists of having an X-ray taken, the correct treatment can begin. This may include resting and elevating the foot as often as possible, and wearing a cast or protective boot while the healing process takes place. For more severe fractures, an MRI might be a necessary test to aid in determining the severity of the fracture. If you feel you have broken your foot, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible so the proper treatment can begin.
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Sharon Pletcher from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury.
Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:
- Bruising
- Pain
- Redness
- Swelling
- Blue in color
- Numbness
- Cold
- Misshapen
- Cuts
- Deformities
Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.
Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment for a Broken FootWhat Is Cuboid Syndrome?
The cuboid bone is a cube shaped bone in the middle of the foot. The cuboid bone is a key component in ensuring the stability of the foot and assists in providing the right weight distribution for the entire body. Cuboid syndrome occurs when the cuboid bone becomes dislocated, which results in pain and sometimes difficulty walking. Oftentimes, this is a result of an ankle sprain, repetitive injuries, and acute trauma. This injury is most common in runners, ballet dancers, and participants of sports that involve similar movement. When this syndrome occurs the midfoot feels pain and discomfort, which can result in problems with general movement of the foot. Walking puts pressure on the foot and most likely will result in an increase in pain, so letting the foot rest is essential for it to heal. If you think you may have cuboid syndrome or a similar ailment, then it is recommended you speak with a podiatrist to receive the proper treatment.
Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Dr. Sharon Pletcher from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.
Causes
The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:
- Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
- Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
- Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.
Symptoms
A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Cuboid Syndrome
Joint Replacement Surgery for Ankle Arthritis
Patients who suffer from the painful condition known as ankle arthritis may benefit from joint replacement surgery. This specific type of surgery may consist of removing the affected ankle joint and replacing it with a plastic implant. This procedure may be beneficial in allowing smoother movements in the ankle, which may aid in easier performance of daily activities. Research has shown that certain patients could benefit from having joint replacement surgery performed, and this group of people may include the older and less active population in which sporting activities are not part of their daily routine. Additionally, overweight people may reconsider having this type of surgery performed and this may be because of the strain the feet and ankles may bear. If you would like additional information about this procedure, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can answer any questions and concerns you may have.
In certain cases, in which the patient suffers from extreme pain or damage in a joint, joint replacement surgery may be deemed useful. If you have constant pain in a foot joint, consult with Dr. Sharon Pletcher from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Joint Replacement Surgery?
Over time, joints wear down; this can be exacerbated by diseases and conditions. Joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is when a damaged joint is surgically removed and replaced with a prosthesis. Prostheses, which can be made of ceramic, plastic, or metal, act as joints in lieu of an actual joint. One of the most prevalent causes for joint replacement is arthritis.
Arthritis in the Foot
Arthritis can occur in any joint in the body, including in the feet. Common types of arthritis in the foot are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. The big toe is usually where arthritis occurs in the foot; this is known as hallux rigidus.
Joint Replacement Surgery in the Foot
The most common form of joint replacement in the foot is a first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint placement. MTP joint replacement surgery is designed to treat hallux rigidus. Surgery is not intensive, and recovery occurs within one to two months after the procedure has been done. Overall, joint replacement surgery is a safe and effective way to treat pain in the joint of the foot.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Joint Replacement SurgeryDealing with Hyperhidrosis of the Feet
Everyone sweats from time to time, whether it be from nervousness, hot weather, or exercise. While most people sweat as a result of external factors, there are some who excessively sweat without any outside interference. The condition affecting these people is called hyperhidrosis, which leads to excessive sweating in many areas of the body. One of the most common areas to experience intense hyperhidrosis is the feet. Fortunately, there are a few ways to avoid some of the issues associated with hyperhidrosis of the feet. Open toe shoes may not be the best idea for those suffering from hyperhidrosis. Sweaty feet in open toed shoes can lead to slipperiness and instability. Socks are also essential in locking in the sweat and helping to eliminate odors. If you believe you have hyperhidrosis of the feet it is important to speak with a podiatrist in order to learn more about treatment options.
If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact Dr. Sharon Pletcher of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
Hyperhidrosis of the Feet
Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.
Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.
Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.
In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.
A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Hyperhidrosis of the FeetMore...
Protecting Your Feet While Working
Many people are involved in jobs where standing is mandatory for most of the day. There may be methods that can alleviate any foot pain, which may be present while working, including using shoe inserts, standing on stress mats instead of hard flooring, or wearing compression stockings. Additionally, it may be beneficial to change positions frequently during the day, which may include sitting for short periods at a time and performing gentle stretches. Wearing shoes that are comfortable and fit well may aid in diminishing aches and pains the feet may endure. Research has shown it may be best to try shoes on after the work day is completed, and this may allow for any swelling that may be present. Properly taking care of your feet while completing the work day may help to prevent painful foot conditions, including plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis. If you would like additional information about the importance of protecting your feet while working, please consult with a podiatrist.
While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Dr. Sharon Pletcher from Pennsylvania. 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 office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about How to Handle a Long Work Day on Your FeetTry Soft Soled Shoes for Baby's First Shoe
Research has shown that a baby’s foot is generally flexible and padded with fatty tissue until walking begins. Babies will typically begin walking at approximately 12 months of age and many toddlers are flat footed. This condition will generally disappear once walking has begun, and this may be a result of the increased strength of bones and muscles that are present in the feet. When the walking process starts, a soft soled shoe is ideal to begin wearing and this may enable the toddler to feel the ground while walking, in addition to protecting their feet. The correct shoe size may be determined by measuring your child’s feet frequently and this may aid in monitoring the speed of their growing feet. Please make sure there is plenty of room for the toes to move freely in, in addition to confirming the shoe is comfortable in width and length. It is suggested to consult with a podiatrist if you would like additional information about how to take care of children’s feet.
The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Dr. Sharon Pletcher of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
- Make sure their shoes fit properly
- Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
- Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
- Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
- Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
- Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
- Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
- Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about How to Care for Your Child's FeetCauses of Sever’s Disease
If your child is complaining of pain in the back of the heel, he or she may have what is referred to as Sever’s disease. This condition will typically target children who actively participate in sports that involve running and jumping and may possibly worsen after an activity is performed. The heel may begin to feel better after an adequate resting period has occurred. The cause of this condition is due to a growth spurt in which the Achilles tendon becomes sore as it attaches to the heel bone. This ailment is often diagnosed by symptoms the child speaks about and treatment will typically consist of rest and wearing cushioned pads in the heels of the shoes. It may be beneficial to gently stretch the Achilles tendon, which may strengthen the heel and surrounding areas. It is suggested to speak with a podiatrist if your child is afflicted with Sever’s disease, so the proper treatment can begin.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Sharon Pletcher from Pennsylvania. 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 State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
Read more about Sever's DiseaseFlat Feet May Gradually Disappear with Age
The medical term that is referred to as flat feet is indicative of the arches in the foot appearing lower than what is classified as normal. Most babies are born with flat feet, and the arches will gradually develop as the aging process occurs. Some patients will have flat feet, or fallen arches throughout their lives, and this may be a result of improper development of the arches during childhood. Noticeable symptoms of this condition may be discomfort and pain in the area where the arch should be, in addition to possible heel pain. Patients whose arches have not properly developed may experience frequent falling or tripping or may notice considerable weakness or pain in the feet. Research has indicated that wearing shoes, which are more supportive may aid in living with flat feet, in addition to performing gentle stretches, which may improve overall flexibility of the foot. If you have this condition, it is important to consult with a podiatrist, who can properly guide you to implement correct treatment techniques.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Sharon Pletcher from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Are Flat Feet?
Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms
- Pain around the heel or arch area
- Trouble standing on the tip toe
- Swelling around the inside of the ankle
- Flat look to one or both feet
- Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Flatfoot