Heel pain in children often occurs during periods of rapid growth. Sever’s disease is frequently linked to overuse and strain on the developing structures of the foot. Children between the ages of eight and 14 are especially at risk because their bones may grow faster than the surrounding muscles and tendons. This imbalance can place added tension on the heel, leading to irritation and pain. Active children who participate in sports that involve running and jumping may experience this condition more often.

Symptoms of heel pain in children include tenderness at the back or bottom of the heel, discomfort during physical activity, and stiffness after rest. Some children may limp or avoid placing full weight on the affected foot. Pain may increase during sports and improve with rest, but it can return when activity resumes. In some cases, swelling or tightness in the calf muscles may also be present. Early recognition of these symptoms can help prevent worsening discomfort and support proper healing.

The main cause of heel pain in children, often called Sever’s disease, can be related to growth spurts. During their adolescent years, the heel bone grows rapidly, while the surrounding muscles and tendons may not keep pace. This can lead to increased tension on the heel. Repetitive impact from sports and physical activities can further strain the area. Relief often includes stretching exercises to improve flexibility and reduce stress on the heel. Parents should never push children through heel pain, as this can lead to more serious issues.

Risk factors for heel pain in children include high levels of physical activity, tight calf muscles, and participation in sports played on hard surfaces. Early attention is important for maintaining comfort and mobility. If your active child has heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Chuc Dang, DPM from California . 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 Westminster, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Corns are thick, hardened areas of skin that develop when repeated pressure or friction affects a specific part of the foot. Unlike a callus, which usually covers a larger area, a corn is smaller and has a firm center that can become quite painful. Corns usually form on the tops or sides of the toes or between the toes where rubbing occurs.  Wearing shoes that are too tight, shoes that are too loose, and high heels can all increase pressure on the skin. Foot problems like hammertoes or claw toes also raise the risk because they change the way the toes press against shoes. As the skin thickens to protect itself, discomfort while walking can become harder to ignore.

A podiatrist can identify a corn with a careful examination and determine what is causing the repeated pressure. Finding the underlying cause is important because simply removing the thickened skin does not prevent the corn from returning. Treatment includes gently trimming the hardened skin in the office to relieve discomfort. A podiatrist can also evaluate toe deformities and explain whether surgery is the best option when a structural problem continues to create excessive pressure. Patients also receive guidance about choosing shoes with a roomy toe area and avoiding shoes that lack proper support. These steps help reduce pressure on sensitive areas and improve comfort with daily activities.

Ignoring a painful corn can make standing and walking more difficult while increasing irritation around the affected area. Early care helps relieve discomfort before the problem becomes more limiting. A podiatrist can recommend treatment that matches your foot structure and activity level while helping reduce repeated pressure on vulnerable areas. Prompt evaluation also helps identify related foot problems before they become more serious. If you have developed corns on the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Chuc Dang, DPM of California . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Flat feet develop when the arches of the feet are lower than expected, or do not form fully. Some people are born with flat feet, while others develop them later because of aging, injury, or changes in the tendons that support the arch. Tendons are strong bands of tissue that connect muscles to bones. Many people with flat feet have no symptoms, but others experience pain in the feet, ankles, or lower legs. Some also notice swelling along the inside of the ankle or fatigue after standing for long periods of time. Changes in foot alignment can affect the way weight is distributed while walking and place extra stress on nearby joints. A podiatrist can evaluate the feet and determine whether flat feet are contributing to these symptoms.

Several factors can increase the chance of developing flat feet or make existing symptoms worse. Age-related changes can weaken the tendons that support the arch. Excess body weight can place additional stress on the feet and ankles. Certain medical conditions, like arthritis or diabetes, can also affect foot structure and function. Previous injuries sometimes change the way the foot moves and lead to arch problems. A podiatrist performs a thorough examination that includes evaluating foot alignment, joint movement, and walking patterns. Imaging studies are sometimes recommended to better understand the condition and identify damage affecting the bones or soft tissues.

Treatment depends on the cause of the flat feet and the severity of the symptoms. A podiatrist can recommend custom orthotics that improve foot alignment and provide better support while walking. Orthotics are specially designed shoe inserts that help distribute pressure more evenly across the feet. Patients also benefit from personalized exercises that strengthen the muscles supporting the arches and improve flexibility. Early evaluation can improve comfort, reduce strain on the feet, and help patients stay active. If you have  of flat feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective management tips.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Chuc Dang, DPM from California . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

Bunions are bony bumps that develop at the base of the big toe, while the joint gradually shifts out of its normal position. As the big toe moves toward the smaller toes, the joint becomes more prominent and may become painful over time. Bunions often develop slowly and may be influenced by inherited foot structure, arthritis, or long-term pressure on the joint. As the deformity progresses, walking and wearing shoes can become increasingly uncomfortable. The skin over the bunion may become irritated, and the surrounding joint may lose flexibility. Because bunions tend to worsen without proper care, a professional evaluation is important to determine the severity of the problem and recommend appropriate treatment. Early podiatry care may also help preserve joint function and reduce discomfort.

Symptoms of a bunion vary depending on its size and progression. Many people experience pain, swelling, or redness around the base of the big toe. Others notice stiffness or difficulty bending the toe during walking. As the joint changes shape, shoes may fit poorly and place additional pressure on the affected area. Some individuals also develop corns or calluses because the toes begin rubbing against one another. Ongoing discomfort can interfere with work, exercise, and everyday activities. Identifying the problem early allows treatment to begin before the deformity continues to progress and affects overall foot function.

A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating bunions and other foot conditions that affect mobility. During an examination, the podiatrist evaluates the alignment of the foot, reviews symptoms, and determines the extent of the bunion before creating an individualized treatment plan. Treatment focuses on relieving pain, improving joint function, and slowing further changes to the affected joint whenever possible. Early podiatry care may also help patients remain active and improve overall foot health. If you are experiencing bunion pain, swelling, or difficulty walking, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Chuc Dang, DPM of California . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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