Children are energetic and in constant movement. Heel pain in kids can result from over-activity, as well as participation in regular sports activities. Such pain often starts with tenderness in the back of the heel and may cause some discomfort when walking. The pain may become severe and interfere with daily functioning. Common causes of heel pain in children include calcaneal apophysitis, Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, and fractures. These are conditions that develop from overuse of the ankles. Calcaneal apophysitis, or Sever’s disease, is characterized by pain in the child’s heel growth plate. It happens in kids as young as six up to 15 years of age. With this condition, pain is caused by the pull of the Achilles tendon during sports and running activities. Plantar fasciitis develops from repeated stress and excessive use of the plantar fascia, the thick band of connective tissue along the arch of the heel. With this, one feels stiffness and pain after prolonged non-use, difficulty walking, and tenderness near the arch of the foot. Achilles tendonitis impacts the Achilles tendon, the strongest tendon in the body. It attaches to the two muscles of the calf to the heel bone and assists in pushing the foot forward while walking or running. Fractures can also lead to heel pain, especially among children who participate in high-impact sports. Symptoms include swelling, bruising, severe pain, and an inability to bear weight. If the child starts limping or walking on their toes, the problem deserves more attention, for if left untreated, these conditions can lead to lifelong problems, like arthritis. If your child suffers from heel pain that does not resolve in a timely manner, see a chiropodist for proper diagnosis and treatment options so that your child can experience relief as soon as possible.
Heel pain is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of injuries, medical conditions, and other factors. If you suffer from heel pain, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility.
When it comes to heel pain, the exact location and type of pain are important to note. Some of the conditions that may cause heel pain include:
- Plantar fasciitis - An inflammation of the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot; it causes a stabbing pain under the heel that is at its worst when taking your first few steps after a long rest and while standing on your tiptoes or climbing stairs
- Achilles tendonitis - An inflammation of the tendon in the back of the calf; it causes pain in the back of the heel that is at its worst after resting, as well as ankle and calf stiffness, swelling, and tenderness
- Bone spurs - Bony lumps on the back of the heel bones that cause sharp pain upon first standing up; the pain becomes dull and achy over time
- Heel fractures - A break or crack in the heel bone that causes pain, swelling, and difficulty walking
- Retrocalcaneal bursitis - Swelling of the small, fluid-filled sac at the back of the heel bone; it causes pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the back of the heel
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome - Compression of the posterior tibial nerve which causes a pins and needles sensation in the heel, foot, and calf
Your chiropodist will be able to diagnose the underlying cause of your pain and prescribe the right treatments for you. If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Niagara Falls, ON .
