Sever's disease is a condition that affects children, particularly those who are active in sports. It is a form of heel pain caused by inflammation of the growth plate in the heel. The condition occurs when the Achilles tendon pulls on the growth plate, leading to discomfort. Common risk factors include participation in high-impact activities like running or jumping, a rapid growth spurt, and tight calf muscles. The primary symptom is pain in the heel, which worsens with physical activity, especially during or after sports. Children may also experience swelling and tenderness in the heel. Stretching exercises that focus on the Achilles tendon and calf muscles can help relieve tension and reduce pain. Stretching the calf muscles, using foam rollers, and performing gentle heel stretches can help promote flexibility and ease discomfort. If your active child has heel pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose the cause, and provide appropriate treatment.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Parkwood Podiatry. 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 offices located in Brunswick and Hinesville, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, redness, and sometimes infection. When conservative treatments, such as soaking and proper nail trimming, do not relieve the condition, surgery may be necessary. There are several types of ingrown toenail surgery. The most common is a partial nail avulsion, where the affected portion of the toenail is removed. In some cases, a chemical or surgical procedure may be used to destroy the nail matrix, preventing the nail from growing back and causing further problems. Another option is a wedge resection, which involves removing a small piece of the toenail and the surrounding tissue to provide long-term relief. Ingrown toenail surgeries are typically performed under local anesthesia, ensuring minimal discomfort. If you have an ingrown toenail that is uncomfortable or has become infected, it is suggested that you seek the guidance of a podiatrist who can determine if this type of surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Parkwood Podiatry. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Brunswick and Hinesville, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Morton’s neuroma is a condition that causes pain in the ball of the foot. The sensation is often described as stepping on a pebble or experiencing a burning feeling. Morton’s neuroma arises when tissue surrounding a nerve thickens due to irritation or compression. It frequently affects the area between the third and fourth toes. A podiatrist can assess your symptoms and may recommend orthotics to redistribute pressure, reducing nerve irritation. For more persistent pain, corticosteroid or anesthetic injections might provide relief by addressing inflammation or numbing the affected area. In severe cases, surgical options, such as neurectomy or decompression, may be considered to alleviate pain and restore mobility. These procedures aim to remove the affected nerve tissue or reduce surrounding pressure. A podiatrist can conduct a thorough evaluation and determine the best way to confront Morton’s neuroma. If you have pain in the ball of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Parkwood Podiatry. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

When selecting shoes for brisk walking, comfort and support are key. It is best to shop for shoes later in the day when your feet are naturally slightly swollen, ensuring the shoes will fit comfortably throughout your walk. Look for shoes with a low heel to provide better balance and reduce pressure on your feet and joints. Ample wiggle room in the toe box is essential to prevent discomfort or blisters during your walk. Stability is important, so choose shoes with a firm sole to maintain a steady stride and prevent foot fatigue. Adequate cushioning is necessary to absorb impact and protect your feet from repetitive stress. Finally, make sure the shoes are the correct length, with enough space in the toe area to avoid cramping. If you have foot pain from wearing the wrong shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer relief tips and guide you on shoes that are right for you.

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Parkwood Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

• Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
• There should be little to no slipping at the heel
• Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
• Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
• Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our our offices located in Brunswick and Hinesville, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.