Sever’s disease is a common cause of heel pain in growing children, especially those who participate in sports. Also called calcaneal apophysitis, it occurs when the growth area at the back of the heel becomes irritated. During growth spurts, bones may grow faster than muscles and tendons can adjust, increasing tension around the heel. Repeated running and jumping add pressure to this sensitive area. Although the name sounds serious, Sever’s disease is not an infection or a permanent bone injury. With appropriate care, most children recover and return to their usual activities.

Sever’s disease most often affects children between eight and 14 years old, while their heel bones are still developing. It is particularly common in children who play soccer, basketball, or other sports involving frequent running and jumping. Symptoms usually include pain at the back or bottom of the heel, tenderness when the area is pressed, and discomfort during activity. Some children begin limping or walking on their toes to avoid pressure. Pain may decrease with rest and return when sports resume. Risk factors include sudden increases in training, tight calf muscles, and wearing shoes with limited support.

The main cause is repeated stress on the growth plate where the Achilles tendon attaches near the heel. Growth spurts can make this area more vulnerable because the tendon may pull firmly on developing tissue. Hard playing surfaces and high-impact sports may increase irritation, especially when children have little recovery time between activities. Sever’s disease affects one heel or both, and symptoms may become more noticeable during busy sports seasons. Parents should not assume every episode of childhood heel pain comes from this condition. A podiatrist examines the heel, reviews activity levels, and recommends imaging if another injury is suspected.

A podiatrist can help confirm the diagnosis and create a treatment plan based on the child’s symptoms. Care may include temporarily reducing painful activities, and wearing supportive shoes or heel cups. Gentle calf stretching may be recommended when appropriate, while a short period of time away from high-impact sports can allow irritation to settle. The podiatrist monitors recovery and advises when activity gradually resumes. Persistent pain or difficulty bearing weight needs prompt assessment. If your active child has heel pain, it is suggested that you consult 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 Paul Potach, DPM from Illinois . Our practitioner 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 Wheeling and Berwyn, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Aging affects the feet by changing their shape, strength, and flexibility. The natural cushioning beneath the heels and balls of the feet becomes thinner, while joints may grow stiffer and arches may flatten. Skin also becomes drier and easier to injure. These changes often lead to heel pain, arthritis, or corns and calluses. Bunions, hammertoes, and thickened toenails also make shoes uncomfortable. Foot pain may alter the way a person walks, reduce activity, and increase the risk of falling. This makes standing, walking, and maintaining balance more challenging, even when no injury has occurred.

Health conditions add to these concerns. Diabetes damages nerves and reduces circulation, making cuts or sores harder to notice and slower to heal. Arthritis causes pain, swelling, and limited joint movement. Poor circulation may leave the feet cold or cause wounds to heal slowly. Changes in balance, eyesight, or reach also make nail care and foot checks more difficult. Persistent numbness, skin color changes, or an open sore require prompt attention. New swelling, warmth, or severe pain should also be evaluated, especially when symptoms affect only one foot.

A podiatrist examines the skin, nails, and circulation to help identify the source of the infection. Care includes safely trimming problem nails, reducing painful corns, and treating infections or wounds. A podiatrist also assesses walking patterns and recommends properly fitted shoes. Custom orthotics or braces improve support, reduce pressure, and make movement more stable. For advanced joint damage or a severe deformity, the podiatrist may discuss whether surgery is appropriate. Regular visits are especially valuable for patients with diabetes, reduced feeling, or circulation problems. Early diagnosis protects mobility and prevents a small concern from becoming more serious. If you are experiencing foot problems as you age, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you need your feet checked, contact Paul Potach, DPM of Illinois . Our practitioner will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

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

Working in construction can place constant stress on your feet. Hours spent standing, walking across uneven surfaces, and lifting materials can increase the chance of foot injuries. Construction foot injuries may range from minor skin irritation to serious wounds or fractures. Nail punctures can occur when sharp debris enters a shoe. Even without one major accident, repeated pressure can gradually create foot problems that affect comfort and movement.

Some construction workers experience pain from conditions that develop over time. Bunions can cause soreness around the big toe and may become irritated when work boots are too narrow. Corns form when repeated pressure creates thickened skin in areas that rub against footwear. Blisters are another common concern, particularly when damp shoes cause repeated friction. Risk factors include wearing poorly fitting boots, long work shifts, and inadequate foot support. A previous foot injury can also make the feet more vulnerable during demanding work.

The right work boot can make a meaningful difference. Look for footwear with impact and compression resistance to help protect the feet from heavy materials. Puncture-resistant midsoles provide another layer of defense against nails and other sharp objects. Breathable materials can help reduce moisture inside the boot and may lower friction that contributes to blisters. Additionally, a wide enough toe box gives the toes room to move without unnecessary pressure. Workers should also inspect boots regularly and replace them when the sole or protective features become worn.

If pain or an injury develops, a podiatrist can evaluate the foot and identify the underlying problem. Treatment may involve cleaning and protecting wounds, reducing pressure, or recommending appropriate footwear. Imaging tests may be used when a fracture is suspected. A podiatrist can also discuss workplace strategies that help protect the feet during recovery. If construction work is a source of ongoing foot pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Paul Potach, DPM from Illinois . Our practitioner will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Wheeling and Berwyn, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Falls can lead to painful injuries and a loss of confidence, especially for older adults. Several health and environmental factors can increase the risk of falling. Arthritis, poor balance, and vision loss can make safe movement more difficult. Certain medications can also affect steadiness. Inside the home, slippery floors, poor lighting, and cluttered walkways can create hazards. Footwear also matters. Shoes that fit poorly or lack proper support can make walking less stable. Understanding these risks is an important part of preventing falls and protecting long-term mobility.

The feet provide the foundation for balance and movement, so foot problems can affect stability. Pain, weakness, or changes in foot structure can alter the way a person walks. Properly fitting shoes with non-skid soles can provide better traction. High heels and loose slippers can increase instability. Home safety is also important. Clear pathways, secure rugs, and good lighting can reduce tripping hazards. Handrails on stairs and grab bars in bathrooms can provide added support. Fall prevention works best when personal risks and environmental hazards are considered together.

A podiatrist can evaluate the feet and ankles for problems that could affect balance or walking. An examination can assess foot structure, joint movement, and areas of pain. A podiatrist can also evaluate shoe fit and recommend footwear that provides better support and stability. Custom orthotics can help improve foot alignment or redistribute pressure when appropriate. Treatment for painful foot conditions can also make walking more comfortable and secure. For patients with balance concerns, a podiatrist can identify foot-related factors that could increase fall risk and develop a plan to address them. If you have symptoms of increased fall risk, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Paul Potach, DPM from Illinois . Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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