Heel Pain in Children

Does your child experience heel pain during the sporting season?

Severs disease is the most common cause of heel pain amongst growing children, particularly those that play sport regularly.

It is caused by stress on the growth plate at the heel bone and occurs during periods of growth. There is could also be termed as growing pains.

Unfortunately, pain seems to occur whilst they are most active, in activities requiring running or jumping, such as basketball, soccer or gymnastics.

Typically, the pain can present at any time during the ages of 8 – 15 and overtraining or incorrect footwear could be a contributing factor.

Severs can be diagnosed by the symptoms. There could be redness or swelling in the heel area, pain or stiffness can be found when standing from a sitting position. If the area of pain or discomfort is squeezed it feels a lot worse and often improves after a period of rest.

Massage, stretching or anti-inflammatory drugs can be helpful for the symptoms. Severs does also resolve by its own, through rest and time. However, the pain can also increase if proper treatment is not initiated, and the child tries to play through the pain.

Severs can be prevented through shoes that are correctly fitted, an appropriate stretching routine, not overtraining and if they are overweight, helping them reduce a few pounds to reduce the pressure on their feet. If your child is experiencing severs and wants to still complete their sporting season, seek professional help early.

To make an immediate appointment and be proactive towards your health call ProHealth Podiatry in Red Hill or Mt Gravatt on (07) 3076 7306 or e-mail info@prohealthpodiatry.com.au.