Sever’s disease is a common cause of heel pain in active children and teens. It occurs when the growth plate at the back of the heel becomes irritated, often during periods of rapid growth. Running, jumping, and sports that involve repeated impact can place added stress on the heel. Children may complain of pain during activity that improves with rest. Conservative treatment focuses on reducing strain and easing inflammation. Rest from high-impact sports allows the heel to recover. Supportive shoes with cushioned heels provide shock absorption. Heel cups or custom orthotics may reduce pressure on the growth plate. Gentle stretching of the calf muscles can improve flexibility and lower tension on the tendon attached to the heel. Most children improve with these non-surgical measures. If your child has ongoing heel pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see David Mansky, DPM from Mansky Podiatry. 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 Hastings, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Idiopathic toe walking is a condition in which a child continues to walk on the toes without a known medical cause after the age when a typical heel to toe gait pattern should develop. This walking pattern can place excessive strain on the muscles and tendons of the foot and ankle, leading to tight calf muscles, limited ankle motion, and imbalance. Signs may include persistent toe walking, difficulty standing flat footed, and frequent tripping. Risk factors can include family history and developmental factors, and it most commonly affects young children. A podiatrist can evaluate gait, recommend stretching, bracing, or other supportive treatments. If your child is toe walking, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can monitor your child's foot health.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact David Mansky, DPM of Mansky Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

Toenail fungus can slowly change the appearance and strength of the nails, causing thickening, discoloration, and crumbling that rarely improves without targeted treatment. Because the organisms responsible live beneath the nail surface, over-the-counter products often struggle to reach them. Professional evaluation allows a podiatrist to identify the specific type of fungus and choose an approach that can truly penetrate the nail and surrounding tissue. Options may include prescription topical medications, oral therapy, or advanced in-office treatments designed to clear the infection more effectively. Addressing the problem early helps prevent the fungus from spreading to other nails or the skin. Consistent care also encourages healthier new nail growth over time. If you are noticing ongoing changes in nail color, thickness, or texture, or if the infection keeps returning, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for precise diagnosis and a treatment plan that actually works.

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 David Mansky, DPM of Mansky Podiatry. 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 contact our office located in Hastings, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. It commonly affects the big toe, leading to sudden and intense pain, redness, swelling, and warmth in the joint. The discomfort may develop quickly and become severe enough to limit walking. Foods high in purines, such as red meat, shellfish, and sugary beverages, can increase uric acid levels and trigger flare ups. Choosing fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and adequate water intake may help to reduce risk. Maintaining a healthy weight also supports prevention. A podiatrist can diagnose gout, manage pain, and recommend treatment to protect joint health. If you have developed gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact David Mansky, DPM from Mansky Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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