Items filtered by date: September 2023

Sever's disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a common but often misunderstood condition affecting children and adolescents, especially those active in sports. It is not a traditional disease but rather a painful growth plate disorder. Understanding its symptoms and appropriate treatment is vital for parents and young athletes. The hallmark symptom of Sever's disease is heel pain, typically at the back or along the bottom of the heel. Pain tends to worsen during or after physical activities and may cause limping or discomfort when walking or running. The condition arises when the growth plate at the back of the heel bone becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress. Fortunately, Sever's disease is treatable. Getting adequate rest and taking over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate discomfort. Stretching exercises and may also be recommended to improve flexibility, and strengthen the calf muscles. Wearing supportive footwear with cushioned insoles may help reduce heel pressure. By recognizing the symptoms and seeking appropriate treatment, parents and young athletes can manage Sever's disease effectively, allowing for a smoother path to recovery and a return to their favorite activities. If your active child has heel pain, it is strongly 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 Michael Schwartzman, DPM from Illinois and Indiana . 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 offices located in West Chicago, IL and Whiting, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

Orthotics, typically associated with seniors or athletes, offer benefits for individuals of all ages, including children. Custom orthotics provide essential support for arches, treat various foot conditions, alleviate general foot pain, and prevent future injuries. Children can significantly benefit from orthotics as they provide a sturdy foundation for developing feet. Timely evaluation and intervention are important for children with foot problems, as their feet grow faster than the rest of their bodies. Orthotics are not recommended for children under 3 years old as many common concerns, such as flat feet or misalignment, tend to resolve naturally during early development. However, signs such as abnormal gait, excessive shoe wear, frequent falls, pain, or deformities may warrant orthotic consultation. Orthotics serve as guides, aiding children in their development by correcting alignment, posture, and balance issues while reducing muscle fatigue. These devices are used to gently realign the foot biomechanically, leading to improved foot function and symptom relief. For active children or those involved in sports, timely orthotic intervention is essential to address gait and mobility issues. Children's orthotics should be replaced every 18 to 24 months due to rapid foot growth. If you suspect your child may benefit from orthotics, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss the potential.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Michael Schwartzman, DPM from Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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

In the field of podiatry, a significant shift has occurred over the past four decades. Initially, due to the challenges of obtaining hospital privileges, most podiatry surgeries were performed in-office. In-office surgery may seem unconventional to younger podiatrists, but it is an opportunity with benefits for both patients and doctors. With advancements in technology and cost-effective tools, in-office surgery offers practical solutions for common podiatric conditions. In addition to reducing costs, in-office surgery saves time, enhances patient convenience, and aligns with the changing landscape of healthcare. It is cost-effective and good for minimally invasive procedures. With local anesthesia and modern techniques, complications are minimal, and recovery is faster. While hospital-based surgery remains essential for certain cases, in-office surgery presents a valuable option for many podiatric procedures. Patients can have more immediate healing and cost savings, and podiatrists have an opportunity to diversify their practice and improve patient outcomes. If you need foot surgery, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss whether they provide in-office procedures.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Michael Schwartzman, DPM of Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in West Chicago, IL and Whiting, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Extensor tendonitis is a common foot issue that causes discomfort across the top of the foot. This condition stems from irritation or inflammation of tendons that are critical for lifting the toes. Repetitive friction and pressure, often due to ill-fitting shoes, are common causes of extensor tendonitis. The primary tendons involved are the extensor hallucis longus, which lifts the big toe, and the extensor digitorum, for the other toes. Extending from lower leg muscles, these tendons cross the front of the ankle, span the upper foot, and attach to toe tips. Their limited protection renders them susceptible to injuries and leads to pain. Overuse or excessive pressure causes inflammation and swelling in these tendons. In time, this can weaken them and cause scarring that reduces flexibility and strength. Risk factors include tight shoes, prolonged weight-bearing, and calf muscle tightness.  Pain from extensor tendonitis usually worsens with activity but subsides during rest. Common signs are swelling, tenderness, and bruising. If you are experiencing symptoms of extensor tendonitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and the appropriate treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Michael Schwartzman, DPM from Illinois and Indiana . 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 our offices located in West Chicago, IL and Whiting, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.