Sever’s Disease and Protecting Growing Feet

Sever’s disease is a heel condition in children and adolescents caused by inflammation of the growth plate in the heel. It often develops during growth spurts when bones grow faster than muscles and tendons, creating tension at the back of the heel. Risk factors include participation in running and jumping sports, tight calf muscles, improper footwear, and high activity levels. Flat feet or high arches may further increase strain on the heels. Symptoms typically include heel pain, tenderness, swelling, and discomfort during activity. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, recommend supportive footwear, provide custom orthotics, and guide stretching programs to relieve stress on the heel. If your active child has heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and relief tips.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Harold Koehler, DPM from University Foot & Ankle. Our practitioner 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 Auburn Hills and Holly, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Causes and Risk Factors for Toenail Fungus

 Toenail fungus,  medically known as onychomycosis, affects the nails of the feet. It occurs when fungal organisms invade the nail plate and surrounding tissue. Causes often include prolonged moisture exposure and contact with contaminated surfaces. Risk factors include walking barefoot on hotel carpets, public showers, pool decks, and surrounding areas where fungi thrive. Symptoms include thickened nails, discoloration, brittleness, crumbling edges, and occasional discomfort. Without treatment, the infection can spread and become more difficult to manage. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose toenail fungus, recommend effective treatment options, and monitor nail health. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

For more information about treatment, contact Harold Koehler, DPM of University Foot & Ankle. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Auburn Hills and Holly, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Gout Causes and Podiatric Care

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden, severe pain, swelling, and redness. Historically known as the disease of kings due to its association with rich diets, gout can affect anyone, including women, especially after hormonal changes later in life. While the big toe is a common site, gout is not limited to that joint, and may involve the ankles, knees, feet, or other areas. Risk factors include genetics, diet, obesity, certain medications, and chronic health conditions. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose gout, manage flare-ups,  provide treatment to reduce pain, protect joints, and improve mobility. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can help you manage this painful condition. 

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Harold Koehler, DPM from University Foot & Ankle. Our practitioner will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

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Dealing With Corns

Recovering from corns on the feet, whether soft, hard, or seed, is a relief for many patients who have lived with daily discomfort. Corns are caused by repeated pressure or friction from tight shoes, foot structure, or walking patterns. They often look like small, thickened circles of skin, sometimes with a hard center, and may feel sharp, tender, or burning when pressure is applied. Soft corns appear between toes and feel moist, while hard corns develop on bony areas, and seed corns form in clusters on the sole. A podiatrist begins with a careful exam to confirm the type of corn and rule out infection or warts. Treatment may include professional removal of thickened skin, protective padding or orthotics, and footwear guidance to prevent recurrence. With proper care, healing is smoother and comfort returns. If you have corns, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Harold Koehler, DPM of University Foot & Ankle. Our practitioner will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

  • Well-fitting socks
  • Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
  • Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our practitioner to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Read more about Corns: What Are They, and How Do You Get Rid of Them
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