Sever's disease is a common cause of heel pain in children between 8 and 12 years old, especially those active in sports. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress or pressure. Causes include increased physical activity, tight calf muscles, and rapid growth during puberty. Risk factors include participation in running or jumping sports and wearing improper footwear. Symptoms often include heel pain, tenderness, limping, and stiffness after activity. A podiatrist can evaluate the condition through a physical exam and recommend treatments such as rest, stretching exercises, and supportive footwear. If your child is experiencing persistent heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and a personalized care plan to relieve discomfort and support healthy growth.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Michael Tomey, DPM from Cary Foot & Ankle Specialists. 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 Cary, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

A nail that turns yellow, thickens, or starts to crumble can be more than a cosmetic issue. Fungal infections often start small, then slowly spread deeper into the nail bed, if left untreated. These infections thrive in warm, moist environments, like sweaty socks or damp shoes, and can be stubborn to eliminate once they take hold. Some people notice an unusual odor or a change in the shape of the nail, while others simply see a dull or brittle appearance. Over time, untreated fungal nails can become painful or lead to secondary problems, especially in people with diabetes or circulation issues. While mild remedies exist, they are often not enough for deeper infections. If your nails have changed in texture, color, or thickness, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

For more information about treatment, contact Michael Tomey, DPM of Cary Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Cary, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, particularly between the toes. It thrives in warm, moist environments and spreads easily through direct contact or contaminated surfaces. Symptoms include itching, burning, peeling, redness, and cracking of the skin. In some cases, it may also cause blisters or thickened skin. Risk factors include wearing damp socks, using public showers, or having sweaty feet. A podiatrist can diagnose the infection and recommend antifungal treatments, proper foot hygiene practices, and footwear changes to prevent recurrence. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you promptly visit a podiatrist who can guide you toward the right treatment, which may include prescribed medication.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Michael Tomey, DPM from Cary Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

Children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, or JIA, may experience joint pain, stiffness, and swelling in the feet that affect how they walk or play. Inflammation can appear in the ankles, toes, or the bottom of the foot, making daily movement more difficult. These foot issues are often overlooked but can have a real impact on a child’s ability to stay active and comfortable. Some children may walk differently to avoid pain, which can lead to other issues over time. Wearing supportive shoes, targeted exercises, and custom orthotics can help manage symptoms and improve function. Because arthritis in children can look different from case to case, regular check-ins with a podiatrist are important. If a child with arthritis begins to limp or complains of foot pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a full evaluation and support.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Michael Tomey, DPM from Cary Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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

Multiple sclerosis, or MS, is a neurological condition that can indirectly contribute to foot problems like plantar fasciitis. MS often causes muscle weakness, changes in gait, and altered foot mechanics, which may place abnormal stress on the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that supports the arch of the foot. Over time, this stress can lead to inflammation and pain. Plantar fasciitis typically causes a sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. The bottom of the foot may feel tight, sore, or swollen, making walking uncomfortable. A podiatrist can help manage plantar fasciitis in patients with MS by addressing biomechanical issues, recommending supportive footwear, and creating custom orthotics. Treatment may also include stretching exercises, anti-inflammatory medication, and, in some cases, advanced options like corticosteroid injections. If you are experiencing symptoms of plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Michael Tomey, DPM from Cary Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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