Items filtered by date: November 2023

Sever's disease, despite its name, is not an illness but a common heel condition affecting growing children, particularly those engaged in sports or activities that involve repetitive stress on the heel bone. Commonly observed in children aged 8 to 14, Sever's disease arises from the inflammation of the growth plate in the heel, where the Achilles tendon attaches. Recognizing the symptoms is vital for early intervention. Affected children may experience heel pain, swelling, and tenderness, especially during or after physical activity. As bones grow faster than muscles and tendons during this age range, the tightness and strain on the heel's growth plate become more pronounced. Factors such as rapid growth, high-impact sports, or wearing inadequate footwear contribute to vulnerability. Understanding Sever's disease and its symptoms equips parents, coaches, and young athletes to navigate this temporary, but uncomfortable condition with informed care and appropriate preventive measures. If your active child has heel pain, it is strongly suggested that he or she is under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and treat this condition.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of the podiatrists from JE Foot & Ankle Associates. 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 one of our offices located in Fleming Island and Palm Coast, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

Heel bone spurs, or calcaneal spurs, are abnormal bone growths that look like hard lumps on the back of or underneath the heel. These formations are caused by persistent irritation or stress on the heel bone. This prompts the cells responsible for bone growth to produce excess calcium deposits over time. One of the causes of heel spurs is tightness in soft tissues like ligaments, muscles, and tendons. When these tissues are under increased tension, they exert excessive force on the attached bone, leading to inflammation and the development of bone spurs. Conditions such as plantar fasciitis, characterized by heightened tension in the plantar fascia under the sole of the foot, can also be a factor. Wearing shoes that are too tight, lack support, or have an improper shape create repetitive friction on different foot areas. The back of the heel is particularly susceptible to this friction, resulting in the accumulation of calcium deposits and the subsequent formation of calcaneal bone spurs. Women, who frequently wear tight fitting shoes that have high heels or pointed toes, are at a higher risk of developing such heel bone spurs. If you believe you may have developed a heel bone spur, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a comprehensive evaluation. 

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of the podiatrists from JE Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fleming Island and Palm Coast, FL . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Fitting shoes properly is an important aspect of foot health and overall comfort. The Brannock device, a ubiquitous foot-measuring tool found in shoe stores, is a valuable tool for ensuring the right fit. Using the Brannock device is a straightforward process. Start by removing your current footwear and placing one foot onto the device's base, ensuring your heel is snug against the heel cup. Then, adjust the slider to reach the tip of your longest toe, typically the big toe. The device provides three key measurements, which are the heel-to-toe length, arch length, and width. Pay attention to all three as they contribute to a well-fitted shoe. The Brannock device takes the guesswork out of shoe sizing, enabling you to find the ideal fit. Remember that feet can vary in size, and it is essential to measure both feet. When trying on shoes, use the larger foot's measurements as a guide for the best overall fit. Properly fitted shoes can prevent discomfort, reduce the risk of foot problems, and provide a foundation for healthy, happy feet. A podiatrist can assist you in how to use the Brannock device to obtain your proper shoe size, and it is suggested that you confer with this type of doctor for any questions you may have.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of the podiatrists from JE Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fleming Island and Palm Coast, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

When it comes to ankle injuries, fractures are a common concern. Broken ankles can encompass several types of fractures, each with distinct characteristics and implications. One of the most frequent fractures is the lateral malleolus fracture, which occurs on the outer bone of the ankle. This type is often linked to a sudden twisting or rolling of the foot. Medial malleolus fractures, on the inner bone of the ankle, can result from severe impacts of excessive stress on the inside of the ankle joint. High ankle fractures, known as syndesmotic fractures, involve the ligaments that connect the tibia and fibula. These are typically caused by high-impact injuries and are often more complex to treat. Understanding the type of ankle fracture you have is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment. The symptoms and recovery process can vary, making it vital for podiatrists to assess the injury accurately and recommend appropriate care. Regardless of the fracture type, prompt and effective treatment is essential for optimal healing and a faster return to a pain-free, functional ankle. If you have broken your ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what type of fracture it is, and offer appropriate treatment methods.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of the podiatrists from JE Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fleming Island and Palm Coast, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.