Sever’s disease is a common cause of heel pain in growing children and often appears during growth spurts when the heel bone develops faster than the surrounding soft tissues. Symptoms may include stiffness, tenderness at the back of the heel, limping after activity, and swelling that can make the heel look slightly puffy or irritated. It may feel like a deep ache or sharp discomfort during running and jumping, and the child may avoid weight bearing on the affected side. Causes often relate to repetitive stress from sports, tight calf muscles, or biomechanical issues such as flat feet or high arches. A podiatrist can begin by assessing the child’s gait, examining the heel, and ruling out other conditions. Early diagnosis leads to effective treatment options, such as activity modification, heel cushions, stretching programs, and custom orthotics to reduce strain. Because timely care supports proper healing and comfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief tips.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Arizona Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors 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 Goodyear, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory condition that often begins in the small joints of the feet. Early signs may include persistent fatigue, swollen joints, unexplained weight loss, and a general sense of malaise that makes daily activities more difficult. The joints in the forefoot and midfoot may feel stiff or tender, especially in the morning, and this discomfort can gradually limit mobility. A podiatrist can evaluate these early symptoms, order imaging when necessary, and develop a care plan that supports joint health, reduces inflammation, and improves comfort. This may include footwear guidance, supportive devices, and targeted therapies. If you notice the first signs of rheumatoid arthritis in your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for early care and long-term management.

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 one of our podiatrists of Arizona Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors 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 office located in Goodyear, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments supporting the ankle stretch or tear, often caused by sudden twists, falls, uneven surfaces, or sports activities that involve running, jumping, or rapid changes in direction. They may look swollen, bruised, or slightly deformed, and in severe cases the ankle may appear unstable. Many individuals describe sharp pain at the moment of injury, followed by tenderness, stiffness, and difficulty bearing weight or walking normally. Lateral ankle sprains, affecting the ligaments on the outside of the ankle, account for nearly 70 percent of all ankle sprains, and repeated injuries can lead to chronic instability if not properly treated. A podiatrist can evaluate the ankle through physical examination and imaging, if needed, to rule out fractures. Treatment options include elevation, bracing, targeted exercises, and guidance on safe return to activity. Early intervention promotes faster recovery, reduces the risk of long-term complications, and supports proper joint function. If you experience persistent ankle pain or swelling after an injury, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Arizona Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most frequent causes of heel pain, and its symptoms often appear gradually. The most noticeable sign is sharp discomfort at the bottom of the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning or after standing up from rest. As the tissue warms up, the pain may ease, only to return later in the day with prolonged standing, walking, or exercise. Many people describe a tight, pulling sensation along the arch, as if the foot needs to stretch but never fully relaxes. The heel may feel tender when you press on it, and the discomfort can worsen in unsupportive shoes or on hard surfaces. If the irritation continues, the pain can spread toward the arch or make it difficult to stay active. When heel pain persists or limits daily movement, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Arizona Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

Diabetic foot ulcers are grouped into stages to help guide treatment and prevent complications. The Wagner system is one of the most widely used approaches. It categorizes ulcers by depth, beginning with wounds limited to the skin surface and progressing to deeper involvement of tendons or bone. Another helpful method is the University of Texas system, which considers both depth and the presence of infection or poor circulation. These classifications allow providers to determine the seriousness of an ulcer and create a focused plan for healing. Early identification is essential because even small changes in the skin can lead to larger problems when sensation and circulation are reduced. If you have diabetes and notice any changes in your feet, such as redness, swelling, calluses, or open sores, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for a complete evaluation.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Arizona Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Goodyear, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.