June 2021

Active children may be more likely to experience heel pain. This pain can be indicative of a condition known as Sever’s disease, and can target children and young adolescents. This uncomfortable ailment affects the growth plate in the heel and can occur as a result of extensive pressure exerted on the area where the Achilles tendon meets the heel. Parents may notice their child may begin to limp, in addition to experiencing a decrease in flexibility if their child is afflicted with Sever’s disease. Prompt treatment generally begins with stopping the activity that caused this condition, and it is beneficial to rest the affected foot. Some children find it may help to perform specific stretches that target the Achilles tendon and calf. If you notice your child has symptoms of Sever’s disease, it is strongly suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can determine what the most effective treatment is.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Kaveh Panahi, DPM from Acacia Foot and Ankle Surgeons. 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 Peoria, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

Diabetes can lead to a variety of complications in the feet, including amputation. This is because diabetics tend to lose sensation in their feet which makes it difficult to notice any problems. Diabetes also leads to poor blood flow in the feet which can lead to numbness and slow the time it takes for wounds to heal. Because of this, it is important for diabetics to create a foot care routine with their podiatrist. This daily routine usually involves checking the feet for wounds or sores, washing the feet, keeping the skin soft and smooth, and protecting the feet with properly fitting footwear. Regular check ups with a podiatrist are also important. A podiatrist will be able to create a customized foot care plan, help provide suggestions on safely treating wounds, and help to provide shoes specifically for diabetics.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Kaveh Panahi, DPM from Acacia Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Research has indicated that millions of people worldwide are affected by toenail fungus. It is an unsightly condition that typically begins with symptoms showing in the big toe. These can include a change in nail texture and color, in addition to becoming thick, brittle, and gradually crumble. It is caused by a fungus that lives and thrives in warm and moist environments, consisting of public swimming pools, shower room floors, and surrounding areas. It is considered to be contagious, and can enter the body through tiny cracks in the skin on the feet. Treatment can begin with changing the socks and shoes daily, and properly trimming the toenails. If you are afflicted with toenail fungus, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can guide you toward the correct treatment technique.

For more information about treatment, contact Kaveh Panahi, DPM of Acacia Foot and Ankle Surgeons. 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 Peoria, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

As the feet age, they begin to experience more wear and tear. The joints in the feet become stressed, and the skin becomes thinner and less elastic. Signs of aging feet include aches and pains, development of bunions, circulatory issues and the toes beginning to curl up. Because foot issues can be debilitating, older patients should take care of their feet. Common things that can be done to help reduce the effects of aging include exercise, general foot care (proper toenail trimming, checking for problems to detect them early, and moisturizing the feet), and wearing properly fitting shoes. Another key to help with aging feet is having an annual check with a podiatrist. Visiting a podiatrist can help find issues such as diabetes or poor circulation, and podiatrists can help treat common foot problems like bunions, ingrown toenails, and cracked heels.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Kaveh Panahi, DPM from Acacia Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

The ankle helps balance, stabilize and support the body. Ankle issues that cause pain can affect the bones, muscles, or soft tissues. One common issue is a sprain, which occurs when the ligaments that connect the bones are damaged or torn. When the tendons in the ankle become inflamed (particularly the Achilles tendon), tendonitis occurs. Another issue that may occur is arthritis, which is a result of the joints becoming inflamed. Lastly, ankle fractures are also common. Most ankle injuries occur from the ankle twisting or turning beyond its normal range of motion, tripping or falling, or an increased force on the ankle when landing. Because different types of ankle pain can be a result of different injuries, patients who are struggling with ankle pain should consult with a podiatrist in order to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Kaveh Panahi, DPM from Acacia Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

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

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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