Common Heel Pain for Children
Although children may seem like they’re unbreakable, with infinite amounts of energy, it’s actually quite common for them to have heel pain every now and then. Usually it’s not serious and will eventually go away on its own, but even so – it’s a good idea to get it checked out just in case it is something that needs to be treated immediately.
One of the most common causes of heel pain is due to Sever’s Disease. Sever’s Disease, also called Calcanea Apophysitis is basically an injury of overuse. Children who frequently jump during sports such as basketball, track, soccer (or even jump rope) are at risk for this injury. The best way to get rid of it is it rest, ice and stretch properly. Your child may need a few weeks of rest to make sure that the pain doesn’t get worse.
Another common reason for heel pain is Achilles tendonitis. This occurs where there is any injury or inflammation in the Achilles tendon. Activities that include a lot of repetitive movement in the feet and ankles can cause tendonitis. To treat your child needs to stay off of their feet and ice periodically. If there is a tear, they may need to get surgery.
Plantar fasciitis, a common injury of the arch of the foot can also occur frequently in children. If your child’s shoes are not supportive enough or they are suddenly active, there is a higher chance of overusing and irritating the connective tissue between your heel and front area of the foot. Rest is one of the best ways to decrease pain and inflammation as well as ice. Until the symptoms disappear, children should not do any strenuous exercises that involve the feet or ankles.
Most of the above listed heel issues should easily be resolved with rest. However, you should always get a thorough check up just to make sure that your child is not being misdiagnosed. Dr. Kenneth R. Wilhelm of Clifton Foot & Ankle Center has been treating patients for over eighteen years. If you have any heel issues, call our office at 703-996-3000 or make an appointment here.