Children are more vulnerable to some kinds of injuries than adults, including a certain type of foot pain. Sever’s Disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, commonly strikes children between the ages of eight and fourteen, especially when they are highly active. Although this can be frightening for them and their parents, we at the Integrity Foot & Ankle Associates in Lorain want to reassure our patients that it is temporary and we are able to help.
In children, the heel bone contains a growth plate from which new tissue develops. Growth plates are weaker than ordinary bone tissue and the Achilles tendon attaches to the pack of the heel, subjecting this particular growth plate to a lot of strong forces. Children who run frequently and play sports such as soccer and basketball, or who are overweight, may suffer overuse injuries including inflammation of the growth plate. This would cause swelling and tenderness or soreness, which would get worse while walking and may be present in one or both feet.
Children suffering from frequent heel pain will need to reduce their activity. Our podiatrists will conduct an examination to determine whether there is a biomechanical problem, such as a tight Achilles tendon, that could be contributing to the growth plate’s inflammation. To return to activity, a patient will need to do stretching exercises to loosen their tendons, and to make sure they warm up before any strenuous activity. Children may also benefit from wearing heel pad shoe inserts and from switching to shoes that provide better arch support. Once the growth plate solidifies, it will not become inflamed again.
Doctors David J. Hintz and Michael A. Wenowitz run Integrity Foot & Ankle Associates at 1740 Cooper Foster Park Road #B, Lorain, Ohio, 44053. To schedule an appointment, visit Integrity Foot and Ankle or call 440-282-1221.
