Sever's disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a common cause of heel pain in growing children and adolescents, particularly those involved in sports like running or basketball. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel or calcaneus becomes irritated or inflamed due to repetitive stress, often worsened by activities that involve running or jumping. The main symptoms of Sever's disease include heel pain, tenderness, and swelling at the back of the heel, especially after physical activity. Children may also limp or complain of discomfort when walking or standing for long periods. Treatment typically focuses on relieving pain and reducing inflammation. This may include stretching exercises for the Achilles tendon. Custom orthotics or heel pads can also help reduce pressure on the heel. In severe cases, a podiatrist may recommend a period of restricted activity. If your child is dealing with this condition, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Sharmila Das-Wattley, DPM from Home Wound Healing. 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 Florida . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toe surgery is sometimes needed when deformities or painful changes in the toes make walking, standing, or wearing shoes difficult. Conditions like hammer toes, claw toes, or severe bunions may cause joints to bend abnormally, leading to corns, ulcers, or painful pressure points. These problems may be present at birth or develop later due to arthritis, high arches, or changes in foot mechanics. When the toe becomes rigid, conservative measures may no longer help, and toe surgery may be required to restore function. A podiatrist can determine whether procedures such as joint realignment, tendon release, bone removal, or fusion are appropriate. In some cases, correction also involves the metatarsal bones of the forefoot to achieve better balance and reduce strain. Surgery can relieve discomfort, improve alignment, and lower the risk of more serious complications. If you are experiencing ongoing toe pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Sharmila Das-Wattley, DPM of Home Wound Healing. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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