Sever's disease, a common cause of heel pain in growing children, involves inflammation of the growth plate in the heel. This condition occurs during periods of rapid growth, typically affecting active children aged eight to 14. The growth plate, or epiphyseal plate, is an area of developing cartilage tissue at the end of long bones. In Sever's disease, repetitive stress from activities like running and jumping causes inflammation and pain in the heel. Factors such as tight calf muscles, flat feet, or high arches can worsen the condition by increasing tension on the growth plate. Understanding the anatomy of the growing heel and the mechanical stresses involved is vital for identifying and managing Sever's disease. Rest, stretching exercises, and wearing supportive footwear are effective measures to alleviate symptoms and promote healing. If your active child has heel pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can accurately 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 Howard Kimmel, DPM from Buckeye Foot Care. 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 one of our offices located in Brook Park and Willoughby, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

Fungal toenail infections, or onychomycosis, account for approximately 50 percent of all nail diseases, particularly affecting toenails. Laboratory diagnosis through microscopy and culture of nail clippings is recommended before starting treatment to confirm the infection type. For patients requiring treatment of fungal toenails, oral antifungal medications are typically used for severe infections, while topical antifungals are suitable for superficial or minor cases and for those unable to take oral medications. The duration of treatment varies, with systemic medications typically requiring a few months and topical treatments possibly extending up to two years. Patients should be aware that treatment success rates vary, and nails may not return to a completely normal appearance even after successful therapy. Additionally, there is a risk of treatment failure or relapse, necessitating further diagnosis and possibly alternative treatment strategies. Ultimately, the decision to treat fungal nails should be individualized, considering the patient's overall health, risk factors such as diabetes or vascular disease, and the severity of the infection. If you have developed a fungal toenail infection, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment suggestions.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Howard Kimmel, DPM of Buckeye Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brook Park and Willoughby, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Feet endure a lot of stress, carrying our body weight over countless miles throughout a lifetime. This constant use can lead to various sources of foot pain, making even basic activities like walking painful. A common cause of foot pain includes plantar fasciitis, characterized by sharp heel pain due to inflammation of the tissue connecting the heel to the toes. Bunions, which are bony bumps forming at the base of the big toe, can also cause significant discomfort. Flat feet, where the arches collapse, can lead to pain and fatigue in the feet and legs. Additionally, arthritis can affect the joints in the feet, leading to chronic pain and stiffness. Treatments for foot pain vary depending on the cause but often include rest, compression, and elevation. Orthotic inserts and wearing proper footwear can also provide relief. In more severe cases, medical interventions such as corticosteroid injections or surgery may be necessary. If you are experiencing persistent foot pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Howard Kimmel, DPM from Buckeye Foot Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brook Park and Willoughby, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cracked heels, a common foot ailment, can occur both before and after running, presenting discomfort and aesthetic concerns. Before running, dry skin and lack of moisture contribute to heel fissures, exacerbated by friction and pressure during physical activity. These cracks can deepen and worsen post-run due to prolonged pressure and sweat accumulation, leading to pain and potential infection. Prevention is key in addressing this issue. Regular moisturization, particularly before running, helps keep the skin supple and prevents excessive drying. Wearing properly cushioned and supportive footwear, as well as moisture-wicking socks, reduces friction and minimizes the risk of developing cracks during exercise. After running, it is important to clean and dry the feet thoroughly, applying moisturizer to soothe and hydrate the skin. Additionally, addressing any existing cracks promptly with foot creams or ointments helps expedite healing and prevents further complications. If you enjoy running and have developed cracked heels, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can offer you effective prevention and treatment techniques.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Howard Kimmel, DPM from Buckeye Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brook Park and Willoughby, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bunion, medically termed hallux valgus, is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe. This condition develops when the big toe pushes against the adjacent toe, causing the joint to protrude outward. Bunions can result from various factors, including genetics, wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, and foot injuries. Individuals with certain foot types, such as flat feet or low arches, are more prone to developing bunions. Additionally, occupations or activities that involve repetitive stress on the feet can increase the risk. Bunions are a relatively common foot ailment, affecting millions of people worldwide, with women being more susceptible than men as a result of wearing high heels or narrow shoes that can worsen the condition. While bunions may initially cause mild discomfort, they can progressively worsen, leading to pain, inflammation, and difficulty walking. A bunion can be uncomfortable, and a podiatrist can offer you effective relief strategies. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you consult this type of doctor who can offer appropriate treatment methods.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Howard Kimmel, DPM of Buckeye Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brook Park and Willoughby, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.