Items filtered by date: February 2023

Children who develop heel pain may be checked for Sever’s disease. It is a condition that can affect children and young teenagers who frequently participate in running and jumping activities. Limping may often be the first sign your child may have this condition, as it may help to reduce the heel pain that accompanies Sever’s disease. This affects the growth plate in the heel, and it is a result of the bones growing faster than the muscles and surrounding tissue. It generally happens during a growth spurt, and performing specific stretches and exercises may help to reduce the pain. The heel and calf muscles can be stretched by standing on a step, and lowering the heels one at a time until a gentle stretch is felt. It is important to practice these stretches while in minimal pain, or the inflammation may increase. A towel stretch can be effective for pain reduction in Sever’s disease. This is done by sitting down with the legs out, wrapping a towel lengthwise around the feet, and pulling the toes slowly toward the body. This stretch can be repeated several times after holding for 30 seconds. If you notice your child is favoring one leg over the other, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can effectively 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 one of our podiatrists from North Penn 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 Lansdale, and King of Prussia, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

People who are diabetic understand that daily work is involved in living a healthy lifestyle. It is important to monitor blood sugar levels, and become aware of what types of foods are eaten. In addition to this, the feet need to be checked every day for existing cuts, bruises, or scrapes. Many diabetic patients have neuropathy, which is the inability to feel wounds on the feet. The bottom of the feet can be checked by a family member or caregiver, or it may be accomplished by using a mirror. Proper diabetic foot care can begin with washing and drying the feet, followed by using a good moisturizer and refraining from using it between the toes. Trimming the toenails regularly may help to prevent an ingrown toenail from developing, and circulation may be improved when a regular exercise routine is implemented. If you have diabetes, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

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 North Penn Podiatry. 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 offices located in Lansdale, and King of Prussia, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle pain can originate from different sources. It is critical to pinpoint the sources of pain to alleviate or prevent it, if possible. Some of the things that can cause ankle pain include arthritis, sprained ankles, and plantar fasciitis. Arthritis is a degenerative condition that wears down bones, tendons, and ligaments in a joint. Some types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis, affect ankle joints more than others. A sprained ankle happens when the ligaments in joints get overstretched or torn from physical activity or injury. Plantar fasciitis is a condition that involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, the band of connective tissue that runs from the heel to the toes on the bottom of the foot. It can cause severe pain in the heel area, which often leads to shooting pain in the ankles. It is most painful upon rising and taking the first steps of the day. Pain from plantar fasciitis will generally get better with exercise but worsen afterward. If you suffer from ankle pain, see a podiatrist for a full examination, diagnosis, and treatment plan.

Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with one of our podiatrists from North Penn Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:

• Broken bones
• Muscle strains
• Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
• Stress fractures

Symptoms

Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:

• Bruising
• Inflammation/ Swelling
• Pain

Diagnosis

To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.

Treatment

Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Lansdale, and King of Prussia, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.