Severs Apophysitis

Calcaneal Apophysitis (Sever's Disease)

What Is Calcaneal Apophysitis?
Calcaneal apophysitis is a painful inflammation of the heel’s growth plate.
Who does it affect?
Usually children between the ages of 8 and 14 years old
Why? The heel bone (calcaneus) is not fully developed until around age 14. Until 14, new bone is forming at the growth plate of the heel. This area is weak so when there is too much repetitive stress on the growth plate, inflammation can develop.
This is often seen in children who participate in sports. They typically complain that walking makes the pain worse.

Other possible causes of Sever's Apophysitis include obesity, a tight Achilles tendon, and biomechanical conditions such as flatfoot or a high-arched foot.

If you suspect that your child may be affected, schedule an appointment at Integrative Foot and Ankle Centers of Washington.

Vascular Exams

On a regular basis in our practice, myself, and the other 2 physicians encounter lower extremity vascular insufficiency (problems with the circulation).
We see people with chronic swelling of the legs/and or feet, wounds of the legs and feet, discoloration and ulcerations.
Another problem can be absent pulses on the feet (yes, you can feel your pulses in your feet and ankles:))
In our offices we have a machine that can evalute your vascular system to see if there are any problems such as blockages, decreased blood flow or even of there is no blood flow.
This test can be done in the office for most people and is relatively painless.
We also work very closely with vascular physicians who can help if there is any problem with your vascular system in your legs.

Dry cracked feet

Heel fissures also known as dry cracked feet are common. They seem to before more prevalent in winter months.
Skin on the bottom outer edge of the heel becomes hard, dry and flaky which can lead to deep cracks which can be very painful, bleed or become infected.

Causes are usually related to living in a dry climate (although I see this regularly here in Seattle), opened heeled shoes and wearing sandals.
These fissures can cause serious problems in any patient but can be even more problematic for patients with Diabetes or a weakened immune system.

Common treatments are keeping the feet moisurized up to twice daily, gentle use of a pumice stone and to wear well cushioned, closed heeled shoes.

If this condion continues to persist for you, please call our office for further treatment options.

Diabetic Neuropathy

Millions of Americans suffer from lower extremity neuropathy. The most common type of neuropathy seen in the office is Diabetic Neuropathy which is also called Peripheral Neuropathy.

Diabetic Neuropathy can lead to loss of ability to feel pain, heat and cold. This loss of sensation may lead to minor cuts, scrapes, bruises or wounds that the patient is unaware of.
Neuropathy may also lead to conditions such as bunions, hammer toes and Charcot Foot.

The most important first line of prevention of Diabetic Neuropathy is to control the Diabetes. Maintaining normal blood pressure and to keep blood sugars at normal levels.

In addition to managing Diabetes and blood pressure it is important to also
-Have regular physical examinations
-Have regular blood tests
-Exercise regularly
-Limit alcohol intake
-Stop smoking