Sever’s disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a common cause of heel pain in growing children and adolescents. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress and tension from the Achilles tendon. This condition is most often seen in physically active children who participate in running or jumping sports. During growth spurts, bones can grow faster than muscles and tendons, which increases strain on the heel. This imbalance leads to irritation and discomfort that can affect mobility and performance in daily and athletic activities.

Symptoms of Sever’s disease include heel pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest. Children may complain of soreness at the back or bottom of the heel, especially after sports. Tenderness, mild swelling, and stiffness are also common. Some children may walk on their toes or limp to avoid placing pressure on the heel. Recognizing these symptoms early is important to prevent worsening pain and to support proper healing during active growth phases.

Risk factors include participation in high-impact sports, rapid growth periods, and tight calf muscles that increase tension on the heel. Improper footwear that lacks cushioning or support can further contribute to stress on the growth plate. Flat feet or high-arched foot structure may also affect how weight is distributed, increasing strain on the heel. These combined factors make active children more vulnerable to this condition, especially during periods of increased activity or training intensity.

Relief from Sever’s disease focuses on reducing stress on the heel and allowing the growth plate to recover. Rest, activity modification, and stretching of the calf muscles are essential components of care. Supportive footwear and heel cushions can help absorb shock and reduce discomfort. Early treatment helps prevent prolonged pain and supports a safe return to activity. If your child has heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose Sever’s disease and provide 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 Podiatry Associates of Texas. 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 offices located in Arlington Weatherford, Mineral Wells, and Farmers Branch, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Wound odor can become a frustrating and emotional problem for many patients dealing with chronic or slow-healing foot injuries. Some people become reluctant to participate in activities or spend time with others because they are concerned about the odor. It can also create challenges for family members and medical staff involved in ongoing wound management. Although odor is common in some chronic wounds, it should never be ignored because it may point to changes within the injured tissue that need medical attention. Understanding the cause of wound odor is an important step toward improving both comfort and healing.

In many cases, wound odor develops when bacteria and other microorganisms grow within damaged tissue. As these organisms break down proteins and other material inside the wound, gases may be released that create an unpleasant smell. Heavy drainage, dead tissue, poor circulation, and excess moisture may also contribute to worsening odor. Wounds that remain open for long periods are often more vulnerable to these problems. Patients with diabetes, vascular disease, or reduced mobility may face a higher risk of chronic foot wounds and odor-related complications. Odor becomes more noticeable when wound drainage accumulates beneath a bandage or dressing.

Modern wound care treatments are designed to improve the wound environment while lowering harmful bacterial levels. Proper cleansing, removal of damaged tissue, and advanced dressings can help reduce odor while supporting healthier healing conditions. Some dressings are specially designed to absorb drainage and control bacteria that contribute to unpleasant smells. An odor that becomes stronger or develops suddenly may be a warning sign of infection or tissue breakdown. Redness, swelling, and pain should also be evaluated promptly. Warmth or increased drainage are also warning signs. If you are experiencing persistent foot wound odor or slow-healing foot wounds, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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 Podiatry Associates of Texas. 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 offices located in Arlington Weatherford, Mineral Wells, and Farmers Branch, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

An ingrown toenail develops when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin instead of growing straight outward. This problem most frequently affects the big toe and can be very painful. Causes include trimming the nails too short, rounding the corners of the nail, and wearing tight-fitting shoes. Genetics may also play a role. As the nail presses into the toe, the area becomes irritated and inflamed. Inflammation is the body's response to irritation. It includes redness, swelling, and tenderness. Pain can become more intense while walking, standing, or wearing shoes that press against the affected toe.

As an ingrown toenail worsens, symptoms become more severe. The skin along the side of the nail can become swollen, red, and painful to the touch. The nail may appear to curve downward into the skin. In some cases, an infection develops. Signs of infection include drainage, pus, and increased swelling. The toe can also feel warm and become more sensitive when walking. People with diabetes should pay close attention to an ingrown toenail because reduced circulation and nerve damage can make foot problems more serious. Prompt evaluation is important when signs of infection are present or when pain continues to increase.

A podiatrist can diagnose an ingrown toenail with a thorough examination of the affected toe. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. A podiatrist may carefully remove the section of nail that is growing into the skin. For recurring cases, part of the nail may be permanently removed to prevent future problems. When infection is present, treatment includes addressing the infection and reducing inflammation. This foot doctor can also identify factors that contributed to the problem and recommend methods to help prevent it from returning. If you have developed an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Podiatry Associates of Texas. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Arlington Weatherford, Mineral Wells, and Farmers Branch, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot and ankle pain while cycling is often related to bike setup and support. Achilles tendonitis can develop from the pedaling motion, especially when the saddle is set too high. This can lead to tightness and pain in the back of the ankle. Ankle discomfort may also occur in those with flat feet, which can affect stability during each pedal stroke. Foot pain is often linked to wearing shoes that lack proper support or riding in too high a gear. These factors increase pressure against the pedal and cause soreness or burning pain. Risk factors include repetitive motion, poor alignment, and improper equipment. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot mechanics and recommend supportive solutions. If cycling pain is limiting your rides, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide effective relief solutions, enabling you to return to this popular activity.

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 one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Associates of Texas. Our doctors 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 offices located in Arlington Weatherford, Mineral Wells, and Farmers Branch, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.