Sever’s disease is a common cause of heel pain in children and adolescents, occurring when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed. It is often caused by repetitive stress from activities like running or jumping, especially during growth spurts. Risk factors include participation in high-impact sports, wearing unsupportive footwear, flat feet, or having tight calf muscles. Symptoms include heel pain that worsens with activity, swelling, and tenderness at the back of the foot. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, recommend rest, stretching exercises, proper footwear, and supportive devices to relieve pain and promote healing. If your child is experiencing persistent heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can provide effective relief tips. 

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Gerald Erskine, DPM from Seneca Family Footcare. 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 Ronceverte, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, often leading to pain, swelling, redness, and difficulty wearing shoes. It may feel sore, stiff, or inflamed, especially after long periods of walking or standing. Bunions develop over time due to pressure on the joint, often from inherited foot structure, improper footwear, or repetitive stress. A podiatrist can diagnose a bunion through a physical exam and imaging, such as X-rays, to assess its severity. Treatment options include custom orthotics, changes in footwear, anti-inflammatory medications, or surgical correction for severe cases. Early intervention can help slow progression and relieve discomfort. If you notice a bump on the side of your big toe or are experiencing foot pain and changes in toe alignment, a podiatrist can help. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment for a full evaluation and personalized care plan.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Gerald Erskine, DPM of Seneca Family Footcare. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

Plantar fasciitis is a painful foot condition caused by strain and inflammation of the plantar fascia. This band of tissue supports the arch and connects the heel to the front of the foot. When the plantar fascia becomes damaged, ongoing heel pain may interfere with walking or standing. When pain continues for 12 months or more despite consistent medical treatment, surgery may be considered. A podiatrist may perform a plantar fasciotomy, which involves cutting part of the fascia to relieve tension. This procedure can be done in traditional open surgery or with a less invasive endoscopic method. Recovery generally begins with limited weight-bearing, with many people walking more comfortably within a few weeks and returning to full activity within two months. While surgery for plantar fasciitis is not needed in most cases, it may help reduce long-term pain and restore foot function when other options have failed. If you have foot pain from plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to determine whether surgery is an option.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Gerald Erskine, DPM of Seneca Family Footcare. 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 office located in Ronceverte, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Wearing shoes that fit well and provide proper support can significantly reduce the risk of falls, especially as people age. When shopping for shoes, ensure they are the right length, with about a quarter of an inch extra space beyond your longest toe, allowing comfort without crowding. Choose shoes that close securely with laces or Velcro for a snug fit. This helps to accommodate natural foot swelling throughout the day. A supportive heel cup that stays in place and a wide, rounded heel enhance stability, offering more ground contact. Heel height should be no more than an inch for proper balance. Additionally, the shoe sole should have good traction without sticking to surfaces, and the toe area should be wide and deep enough for movement. Avoid shoes like floppy slippers with open heels or heavy footwear. If you have fallen recently and have sustained foot or ankle injuries, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, while guiding you on helpful tips on falls prevention.    

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 Gerald Erskine, DPM from Seneca Family Footcare. Our doctor 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 office located in Ronceverte, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.