Phone: 973.595.8900
Too many coaches and parents shrug off heel pain in child athletes. Believing it to be just "part of the game" they encourage children to play through the pain. Often it is assumed that the pain is just part of growing up.
Our Wayne, NJ podiatrists are here to say that heel pain in children does require medical attention. When a child is suffering, even from mild pain, it is imperative that the cause of the pain is identified and treated. Heel pain in children must not be ignored. The pain may indicate a problem that, left untreated, could affect the child for life.
One of the most common causes of heel pain in children is Sever's disease. Also known as growth plate trauma, this syndrome usually effects children ages 8 to 14 during the growth spurt of puberty. Sever's disease occurs when the heel bone grows faster than the attaching muscles and tendons. The tightly stretched tendons put pressure on the growth plate of the heel bone. Physical activity results in stress and trauma to the already inflamed heel. This inflammation results in pain, in addition to the following signs and symptoms:
Heel pain in children, more often than not, is related to the growth plate. Because of this, it is crucial that a podiatrist act quickly. While Sever's disease is the top cause of heel pain in children, it is not the only cause. Another possibility is a fracture of the growth plate in the heel. Left untreated, growth plate problems can cause a malformation of the bone, leading to a lifetime of pain and instability.
If your child is displaying any of the above symptoms, please do not hesitate to call the Wayne, NJ podiatry office of Wayne Foot & Ankle at 973.595.8900 to schedule an appointment. We will work to find the source of your child's pain and get him back to the activities he loves.
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