What conditions cause heel pain in children?
Calcaneal Apophysitis (Sever’s Disease)
Calcaneal apophysitis is a painful inflammation of the heel’s growth plate. It typically affects children between the ages of 8 and 14 because the heel bone (calcaneus) is not fully developed until at least age 14. Until then, new bone forms 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. The chances of a child developing heel pain can be reduced by avoiding unsupportive shoes, cleats, obesity, and activity beyond the child’s ability.
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Symptoms of Calcaneal Apophysitis:
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Pain in back or bottom of heel
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Limping
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Walking on toes
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Difficulty running, jumping, or participating in usual activities
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Pain when sides of heel are squeezed
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Tiredness
Treatment:
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Reduce/stop pain-causing activity
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Support the heel using shoe inserts or custom orthotic devices
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Oral pain and anti-inflammatory medications
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Physical therapy
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Immobilization using a cast