
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 or overuse. Symptoms include heel pain, swelling, and tenderness, especially during sports or physical activity. Risk factors include rapid growth spurts, participation in running or jumping sports, tight calf muscles, and wearing improper footwear. Causes are linked to repetitive pulling of the Achilles tendon on the heel bone. A podiatrist can evaluate the foot structure, recommend stretching, custom orthotics, footwear adjustments, and rest to relieve pain and prevent recurrence. If your active child has heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and offer effective relief tips.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Kelly Whaley, 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 office located in Willoughby, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A lump on the side of the foot can develop from several causes related to foot structure, fluid buildup, inflammation, or benign growths. Structural issues such as bone prominence or joint misalignment may create noticeable bumps, while inflammation from overuse or irritation can lead to swollen areas. Fluid-filled cysts or soft tissue growths can also appear, causing discomfort or difficulty wearing shoes. A podiatrist can determine the exact cause through a thorough examination and imaging, offering treatment options such as custom orthotics, medication, or minor procedures. If you notice a lump on the side of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose the cause, and offer effective relief and management tips.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Kelly Whaley, DPM from Ohio. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Bunions
- Hammertoes
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Bone Spurs
- Corns
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Ingrown Toenails
- Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
- Flat Feet
- Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
- And more
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Willoughby, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain is a common foot complaint that can significantly impact daily activities. It may stem from conditions such as plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, or neuromas. Plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, causing sharp pain near the heel, especially in the morning. Stress fractures are tiny cracks in the heel bone often caused by repetitive stress or overuse, resulting in a dull, aching pain that worsens with activity. Neuromas are nerve-related issues that can cause burning or tingling sensations, sometimes accompanied by swelling. The heel may appear swollen or bruised and feel tender to the touch. A podiatrist can diagnose the exact cause through a physical exam and imaging tests. Treatment options include custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory medications, or, in some cases, minor surgical procedures. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist if heel pain persists.
Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Kelly Whaley, DPM of Ohio. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Causes of Heel Pain
Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.
Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.
Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.
Why Might Heel Pain Occur?
- Wearing ill-fitting shoes
- Wearing non-supportive shoes
- Weight change
- Excessive running
Treatments
Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Willoughby, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

