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Sever’s disease causes heel pain in growing children, especially those who are physically active. It usually develops between ages eight and 14, when the heel bone is going through a period of growth. The condition affects the growth area where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel bone. This area is still developing from cartilage into mature bone. Repeated stress from running or jumping can irritate it and cause pain. Symptoms include heel pain with exercise, increased pain after activity, and limping. Some children also walk on their toes to reduce pressure on the painful heel. One or both heels can be affected.

Growth and activity levels can influence the development of Sever’s disease. A child can experience symptoms after increasing the amount or intensity of sports participation. Starting a new sport can also place different demands on the heel. Activities that involve frequent running and jumping are strongly linked with symptoms. Changes in height and weight can contribute as the body develops. Foot structure can play a role as well. Children with flat-foot posture can have a slightly greater risk. Certain shoes, especially those with a low heel, can place added strain on the growth area by increasing tension through the Achilles tendon.

A podiatrist can evaluate heel pain by discussing symptoms and examining the child’s feet and legs. X-rays are generally not used to diagnose Sever’s disease, although imaging can sometimes help rule out another cause of heel pain. Treatment focuses on reducing pain while managing activity appropriately. A podiatrist can recommend activity changes, heel raises, or custom orthotics based on the child’s needs. The condition rarely causes long-term problems once the growth area matures. If your active child has symptoms of Sever’s disease, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Chukwuma Ukata, DPM from Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. 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 Garner, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis causes pain where a band of tissue runs along the bottom of the foot, from the heel toward the toes. This tissue supports the arch and absorbs pressure. Repeated strain can irritate it and lead to sharp heel pain. Discomfort is usually strongest with the first steps after getting out of bed or standing after a long rest. It can ease once the foot begins moving, then return after extended standing or activity. Tight calf muscles, changes in activity, and excess body weight can increase strain. Shoes that lack proper support can add stress to the heel and arch.

A podiatrist can determine whether plantar fasciitis is causing the pain or another foot problem is responsible. The examination includes checking the tender area, the arch, and movement in the foot and ankle. The podiatrist may also watch how the patient stands and walks. X-rays can help rule out a fracture, arthritis, or another bone problem. Other imaging can be ordered when the source of pain remains unclear. An accurate diagnosis matters because heel pain can also result from a pinched nerve, damaged heel pad, or stress fracture.

Treatment focuses on reducing pressure, improving support, and allowing the irritated tissue to heal. A podiatrist can recommend fitted shoes and prescribe custom orthotics to improve how pressure moves across the foot. A night splint can hold the foot in a position that reduces morning pain. The podiatrist can also provide a guided stretching plan and monitor progress. Most cases improve without surgery, although recovery can take several months. Persistent pain may require further treatment. Surgery is rarely recommended and is reserved for severe symptoms that do not respond to other care. Follow-up visits help the podiatrist adjust treatment and address problems that could cause the pain to return. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Chukwuma Ukata, DPM from Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

Foot and ankle trauma can range from sprains to serious fractures that affect a person’s ability to stand and walk comfortably. The ankle is the most frequently injured major weight-bearing joint in the body, and lateral ankle sprains are especially common. Foot and ankle fractures also make up a notable portion of bone injuries. Trauma can occur during sports or motor vehicle accidents, while certain bone conditions may make fractures more likely. Because the feet and ankles support body weight during movement, injuries in these areas can interfere with mobility and everyday activities. Early recognition is important because missed or delayed diagnoses may increase the risk of complications.

Some foot and ankle injuries can be difficult to recognize during an initial evaluation. Lisfranc injuries affect the middle of the foot, ranging from lower-energy sprains to more serious fracture-dislocations. They can occur from twisting movements or direct forces during significant trauma. Some Lisfranc injuries are not immediately visible on standard X-rays, making further evaluation important when symptoms continue. Midfoot trauma may also involve ligament damage or fractures in surrounding bones. More severe ankle trauma can involve fractures that affect joint stability and may require detailed imaging to determine the extent of the injury.

A podiatrist can evaluate foot and ankle trauma by examining the injured area and determining how the damage has affected movement and stability. Imaging may be used to identify fractures or injuries involving joints and ligaments. A podiatrist can recommend treatment based on the location and severity of the injury. This foot doctor can also determine whether additional medical care or surgery is necessary. Prompt professional evaluation can be especially important after significant trauma or when walking becomes difficult. If foot or ankle pain develops after an injury or continues to limit your mobility, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

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 Chukwuma Ukata, DPM from Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor 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 office located in Garner, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Morton’s neuroma is a condition that affects the nerves in the forefoot, leading to pain and discomfort during daily activities. It develops when the tissue around a nerve becomes thickened due to repeated irritation or pressure. This commonly occurs in the area between the toes, where the nerve is more vulnerable to compression. Although the condition is not dangerous, it can significantly impact walking and overall foot function.

Common symptoms include pain in the ball of the foot that may feel sharp or burning in nature. Some individuals report a sensation of standing on a small object, often described as a pebble in the shoe. Numbness or tingling in the toes may also be present, along with stiffness in the morning that gradually improves throughout the day. These symptoms are often aggravated by activity or by wearing shoes that do not provide enough space or support.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing Morton’s neuroma. Repetitive stress from high-impact activities can irritate the nerve, while tight or narrow shoes can compress the forefoot. High-heeled footwear shifts body weight forward, adding pressure to the affected area. Structural foot issues, such as bunions or abnormal arches, can also contribute to uneven pressure distribution and increase the likelihood of nerve irritation.

Understanding the causes and symptoms of Morton’s neuroma is essential for early intervention and effective care. Taking steps to reduce pressure on the forefoot can improve comfort and prevent worsening symptoms. Seeking a podiatrist's evaluation can help determine the best course of treatment. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Chukwuma Ukata, DPM of Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor 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 office located in Garner, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.