Sever’s disease causes heel pain in growing children, especially those who run or jump in sports. Despite its name, it is not an illness or disease. It is irritation and swelling at the growth plate in the heel bone. A growth plate is developing tissue where a child’s bone grows. During a growth spurt, the heel bone can grow faster than nearby muscles and tendons. The Achilles tendon then pulls tightly against the growth plate. Repeated activity can make the area sore. The problem usually develops between ages nine and 14, and does not cause lasting damage after the growth plate matures.

A child with Sever’s disease can feel pain or tenderness in one or both heels. The heel can also become swollen, red, or stiff after waking. Some children limp or walk on their toes to avoid pressure. A podiatrist asks about the child’s sports, growth, and symptoms. The podiatrist also examines the foot and gently presses the sides of the heel. X-rays do not show Sever’s disease, but the podiatrist can order them to rule out a fracture or another cause of pain.

Treatment aims to reduce strain on the growth plate and help the heel recover. A podiatrist can recommend changes to activities based on the child’s pain. This foot doctor can also check whether the child’s shoes fit correctly and provide enough cushioning and support. Heel cups or custom shoe inserts can reduce pressure and improve foot position. For severe pain, the podiatrist can prescribe a walking boot or a short cast to limit heel movement. Children should return to sports only when activity no longer causes pain. Sever’s disease usually clears as the heel finishes growing. If your active child complains of heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and offer relief tips for Sever’s disease.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Josef Elouze, DPM from Elite 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 (Holiday City) Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pickleball combines quick starts, sudden stops, and sharp changes in direction on a hard court. These movements place heavy stress on the feet and ankles. An ankle sprain can occur when the joint rolls and stretches or tears its supporting ligaments. Other injuries related to pickleball include plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendon tears, and stress fractures. Plantar fasciitis causes pain where the thick band beneath the foot becomes irritated. Repeated impact can also lead to heel pain or pain in the ball of the foot. Poor balance, fatigue, and shoes that lack proper support can raise the risk of injury.

Symptoms vary with the injured area and damage. An ankle sprain can cause pain, swelling, and bruising. Achilles tendon trouble can produce stiffness above the heel and pain when pushing off. A stress fracture can cause focused pain that grows worse with activity, while plantar fasciitis usually creates sharp heel pain after rest. Sudden inability to bear weight, a visible change in shape, or a popping sound requires prompt attention. Continuing to play through pain can worsen an injury and change the way a player moves. This can strain the opposite foot and legs.

A podiatrist can examine the painful area, test joint movement, and evaluate foot mechanics. X-rays can reveal broken bones or changes in joint alignment. Other imaging can help identify damage to tendons, ligaments, or soft tissue. Treatment depends on the diagnosis and the demands placed on the foot. A podiatrist can provide immobilization, bracing, or custom orthotics to protect the injured area and improve support. The podiatrist can also recommend court shoes with proper cushioning and side-to-side stability. For serious injuries, the treatment plan can include surgery. Evaluation guides a safe return to pickleball. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury from playing pickleball, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Josef Elouze, DPM from Elite Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

If you have any questions please contact our office located in (Holiday City) Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A broken toe can cause significant pain and make standing or walking difficult. Toe fractures usually result from direct trauma, such as  kicking a hard object or dropping something heavy on the foot. Bruising and swelling can develop soon after the injury. Pain can become worse when pressure is placed on the affected toe. Although many broken toes do not require surgery, proper evaluation is important. The location of the fracture and the position of the broken bone can affect treatment and recovery.

Most toe fractures heal within six to eight weeks, although recovery varies between patients. A broken big toe can require additional support because it plays an important role in balance and walking. Some fractures are treated with buddy strapping, which means securing the injured toe to the neighboring toe for support. Sturdy shoes with a stiff sole and wide toe box can also protect the injured area. Persistent pain, numbness, or changes in circulation can signal a problem that requires prompt evaluation.

A podiatrist can examine an injured toe and determine whether a fracture has occurred. X-rays can show the location and severity of the break and help guide treatment. A podiatrist can provide appropriate support for the toe and recommend protective shoes or a special walking boot for certain fractures. Treatment also focuses on maintaining proper alignment while the bone heals. A podiatrist can also monitor healing and determine when it is safe to return to work, sports, or other demanding activities. Continued pain or difficulty walking after the expected healing period should be evaluated. If you have broken your toe, a it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Josef Elouze, DPM from Elite Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in (Holiday City) Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Wearing the wrong running shoes can negatively affect foot health, performance, and overall comfort during physical activity. Running shoes are designed to provide proper support, cushioning, and alignment based on an individual foot type and movement pattern. When shoes do not match these needs, they can disrupt natural biomechanics and increase stress on the feet. Over time, this mismatch can lead to discomfort and injury. Understanding the importance of proper footwear selection is essential for maintaining foot stability and preventing long-term damage.

Symptoms of wearing improper running shoes often include foot pain, discomfort, and reduced performance during activity. Runners may notice early fatigue, lack of support, or instability with each step. Continued use of unsuitable shoes can lead to premature wear and tear on the feet and surrounding joints. This may increase the risk of developing conditions such as blisters, toenail issues, and nerve related problems like neuromas. These symptoms can interfere with movement and limit the ability to maintain consistent physical activity.

Several causes contribute to problems associated with wearing incorrect footwear. Shoes that are too tight can compress the toes and create pressure points, while shoes that are too loose may fail to provide proper support. Lack of cushioning can increase impact stress, and poor arch support may lead to improper weight distribution. Choosing shoes based only on appearance rather than function can also contribute to these issues. Without proper fit and design, the feet are forced to compensate, which may lead to structural strain, over time.

Risk factors include high activity levels, improper gait mechanics, and lack of professional fitting when selecting running shoes. Selecting the right running shoes, replacing worn footwear, and paying attention to comfort can reduce risk. If you have foot conditions from wearing the wrong running shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief tips, and additional guidance on how to choose the right shoes for your desired style of running.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Josef Elouze, DPM from Elite Podiatry. Our doctor can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in (Holiday City) Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.