Items filtered by date: May 2022

The medical term for a condition that is referred to as Sever’s disease is known as calcaneal apophysitis. It can typically happen to children who are between 9 and 12 years of age. Young adults who actively participate in sporting events may develop Sever’s disease. It is defined as heel pain that occurs in the growth plate, where the Achilles tendon inserts into the heel. It could happen as a result of a sudden growth spurt, or if there is a significant increase in a running or jumping activity. This condition often causes severe pain and discomfort, and it is beneficial to rest the affected foot as often as possible. Many parents encourage their children to temporarily refrain from practicing the activities that caused the injury, until the symptoms diminish. It may help to wear custom made orthotics depending upon the severity of the pain. If you feel your child may have Sever’s disease, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible so the correct treatment can begin.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Charles Perry, DPM from Ohio. 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 Cambridge and Zanesville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

Patients who have pain between the toes may have a condition that is known as Morton’s neuroma. The discomfort can come from the nerves between the toes, and the pain may extend to the ball of the foot. The first symptom of Morton’s neuroma is often a tingling sensation, which will gradually worsen. In severe cases, the pain can become unbearable as pressure is exerted from shoes. Some patients describe the pain as being so unbearable they are anxious about putting the affected foot on the ground. This condition occurs as a result of compressed nerves between the toes, and the surrounding tissue may become thick. People who are most likely to be affected by Morton’s neuroma include women who frequently wear high heels, runners, or anyone with a high arch. In mild cases, treatment can consist of changing the type of shoes worn, and it may help to use orthotics. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary. After the surgery, many times a protective shoe is worn as the healing process takes place. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested to consult with a podiatrist who can perform a proper diagnosis and suggest the correct treatment for you.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Charles Perry, DPM of Ohio. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Rheumatoid arthritis, which is referred to as RA, is an extremely painful and often debilitating disease that causes inflammation in joints. It can occur in the feet and ankles, often affecting the small interphalangeal joints in the toes first. RA may also develop in the metatarsophalangeal joint in the big toe, as well as the subtalar joint that connects the ankle with the foot. RA can damage other structures in the feet and ankles, and may lead to the formation of nodules in ligaments and tendons. Additionally, corns and calluses may form on the skin. Damage from RA may change the shape of affected joints and cause the toes to become twisted and deformed, as in hammertoes and bunions. RA flares can affect people differently. Symptoms from an RA flare can last for days, weeks, or even months and it may be difficult to walk. Professional care from a podiatrist can help ease symptoms, improve mobility, and help to lessen future damage to affected joints.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Charles Perry, DPM of Ohio. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Cambridge and Zanesville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

An excess of uric acid in the blood can lead to the painful condition that is known as gout. Uric acid can come from eating foods that have high levels of purines. There are specific types of foods to avoid that can lead to gout attacks. These can include shellfish, red meat, and drinks that have large amounts of sugar. Additionally, there are foods that can be eaten that can possibly prevent and manage gout. These consist of cherries which have anti-inflammatory properties, and fresh or frozen juices. It  can help to eat foods that are rich in vitamin C, and research has shown drinking coffee may decrease the risk of getting gout. Some patients prefer to eat foods that are plant-based, and staying hydrated is beneficial in controlling gout. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the right treatment options.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Charles Perry, DPM from Ohio. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

A bunion is easy to identify. It is defined as a bony protrusion on the side of the big toe and the skin may appear to be red. A bunion can develop as a result of genetic factors, or from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Some patients find it helpful to wear a cushion on top of the bunion as this may help to relieve some of the discomfort. Many times, larger shoes need to be purchased that can accommodate the bunion and surgery may be considered for permanent removal. There are several types of bunion surgeries that can be performed. A bunionectomy is performed to remove the bony growth, in addition to realigning the muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Having an osteotomy performed involves cutting the toe bone which may help to straighten the joints. When bones are fused, it is known as an arthrodesis. Additionally, an arthroplasty is done by removing the damaged joint, which is necessary in allowing scar tissue to form. If you have developed a bunion, it is strongly advised that you seek the care of a podiatrist who can provide the correct treatment method for you.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Charles Perry, DPM of Ohio. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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