Sever’s disease is a condition that affects children and young teenagers who participate in running and jumping activities. A noticeable symptom is heel pain, and this can occur when the muscles and tendons grow at different rates. Many parents may become aware of this foot condition when they notice their child is limping and complaining of heel pain. Relief is often sought at this time, despite the fact that children may outgrow this condition as the aging process occurs. Mild comfort may be found when the feet are rested as often as possible, in addition to wearing cushioned pads at the heel of the shoes. It is beneficial to temporarily stop the activity that caused this ailment, and replace it by performing specific stretches. An effective stretch is done by standing on a step, and lowering the heels one at a time until a gentle pull is felt. Sever’s disease can cause your child to have heel pain, and it is strongly urged that you consult a podiatrist who can help you and your child manage this condition.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Dr. Jeffrey J. Betman & 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 our offices located in Northwest Chicago, Southwest Chicago, and Wicker Park, Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

As a car gets older, its parts start to wear out. This is also true with the feet. Foot problems begin to mount as one ages. This can be attributed to wear and tear, along with a number of other factors. The skin on the feet, along with other parts of the body, begins to lose its elasticity, creating an environment for infections or injuries. The fatty heel pad thins out, causing a loss of cushioning that may increase the likelihood of heel pain. Tendons and ligaments can become looser, leaving one open to strains and sprains. Further, the size of the foot may change as the feet naturally widen with age. It’s suggested that older adults check their shoe size before purchasing new footwear. Shoes that are too tight can invite foot and toe maladies. Finally, certain medical and health conditions, such as diabetes, obesity, and arthritis can affect the circulation of blood to the lower legs, feet, and toes. This can develop into neuropathy, which if not monitored, can lead to serious infections. As an older adult, it is a good idea to make an appointment with a podiatrist to check out the health of your feet.  

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Dr. Jeffrey J. Betman & Associates . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Northwest Chicago, Southwest Chicago, and Wicker Park, Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Even though our feet are responsible for so much of what we need to get through life, they are often neglected until they cause us discomfort. Given that our feet often get dry, and can be exposed to harmful bacteria, such as toenail fungus, it is beneficial over the course of one’s life to take proper care of them. Not many people know that soaking feet in apple cider vinegar has many benefits. It can help control infections, neutralize bad odors, soften the skin, hydrate feet, and calm itching. Apple cider vinegar is rich in acids and antifungal ingredients that can help regulate the pH balance of our skin. Simply add a cup of vinegar to a bowl of warm water and soak your feet for 15 to 20 minutes. Repeat this treatment two or three times each week. Though this is a unique and natural part of routine foot care, if you should feel pain or notice something unusual going on with your feet, consult a podiatrist who can diagnose any problems and provide treatment for relief.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Dr. Jeffrey J. Betman & Associates . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Northwest Chicago, Southwest Chicago, and Wicker Park, Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The Achilles tendon connects the heel to the bones of the leg. When it becomes irritated or swollen, inflammation may set in that causes a painful condition known as Achilles tendonitis. Other symptoms include stiffness and soreness in the heel, a crackling sound when the ankle moves, pain when the foot is extended, and weakness in the affected leg. Achilles tendonitis is common among athletes whose sport or activity puts particular stress on the heel, such as running, jumping, basketball, dancing, skiing, or figure skating. A walking boot or cast may be necessary for stability, and custom orthotics may help to keep the injury from recurring. In severe cases, surgery may be required. Seeing a podiatrist is a wise way to find out the best treatment options to combat this condition. 

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Dr. Jeffrey J. Betman & Associates . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Northwest Chicago, Southwest Chicago, and Wicker Park, Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.