Monday, June 11, 2012

Heel Pain in Children


Calcaneal Apophysitis also known as Sever’s Disease is a very common problem among active children from the age of 6 to 16.  This condition occurs when there are microtraumas to the growth plate that is located on the back of the heel in a growing child.  Inflammation and pain may occur during, or following sports. This pain usually will subside with rest, but returns with activity.  Radiographs of the heel often show fractures within the growth plate at the areas of tenderness.  Treatment consists of Custom Orthotics which are shoe inserts with special custom modifications. They are created from a scan or mold of the child’s feet. Usually once a child is fitted for these devices they are able to continue with their sports activity without any significant pain.  Growth spurts naturally become a factor with these medical devices, they are only correcting the problem while they fit properly.  For immediate treatment the parents can ice the heels and place the child on children’s Ibuprofen.

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