What Is Children's Heel Pain?
Children’s heel pain is not the same as the most frequent type of heel pain in adults. While adult heel pain normally goes away after a time of walking, pediatric heel discomfort does not. Walking, in fact, tends to aggravate the pain.
Because the heel bone is still growing, heel pain in children frequently returns after treatment. Recurrence of heel discomfort could indicate calcaneal apophysitis or something else entirely. Make an appointment with your podiatrist if your child experiences heel discomfort on a regular basis.
Although it is not a true “disease,” calcaneal apophysitis is also known as Sever’s disease. It’s the most common cause of children’s heel pain, and it can happen in either one or both feet.
Does Your Child Have Heel Pain?
When you have foot or ankle problems, you don’t want just anyone. Call on the friendly experienced foot doctors at Rocky Mountain. Our specialists will make sure your child gets the best care possible.
Children's Heel Pain Causes and Symptoms
Calcaneal apophysitis is a painful inflammation of the heel’s growth plate. It typically affects children between the ages of 8 and 14 years old, because the heel bone (calcaneus) is not fully developed until at least age 14. Until then, new bone is forming at the growth plate (physis), a weak area located at the back of the heel. When there is too much repetitive stress on the growth plate, inflammation can develop.
Calcaneal apophysitis is caused by overuse and stress on the heel bone such as would be seen in sports or activities with high repetition in movement. Repeated running and pounding on hard surfaces causes muscle strain and inflammation in the growth plate of the heel. As a result, children and adolescents who participate in sports such as soccer, track, or basketball are more sensitive. Obesity, a tight Achilles tendon, and biomechanical issues like flatfoot or a high-arched foot are all possible causes of calcaneal apophysitis.
Pain at the back or bottom of the heel, limping, walking on toes, trouble running, jumping, or participating in normal activities or sports, and pain when the sides of the heel are pressed are all symptoms of calcaneal apophysitis.
Are You Searching For An Experienced Children's Podiatrist In The Caldwell Or Meridian, Idaho Area?
If you're seeking the help of an experienced child podiatrist you owe it to yourself to speak with our doctors as soon as possible. Please feel free to contact us online or call our office directly at 208.855.5955 to schedule your appointment. We service all areas surrounding Meridian, Idaho as well as all areas in the Caldwell, Idaho area. We look forward to helping you and your children!
