Heel pain in children differs from the most common type of heel pain experienced by adults. While heel pain in adults usually subsides after a period of walking, pediatric heel pain generally doesn’t improve in this manner. In fact, walking typically makes the pain worse. 

Calcaneal apophysitis is a painful inflammation of the heel’s growth plate. It typically affects children between the ages of 8 and 14 years old, because the growth plate of the heel bone is not fully developed until at least age 14. New bone is forming at the growth plate at the back of the heel, which creates a weak spot at the area of the attachment of the Achilles tendon. When there is too much repetitive stress on the growth plate, inflammation can develop.

Calcaneal apophysitis is also called Sever’s disease, although it is not a true “disease.” It is the most common cause of heel pain in children and can occur in one or both feet.

Causes

Overuse and stress on the heel bone through participation in sports is a major cause of calcaneal apophysitis. The heel’s growth plate is sensitive to repeated running and pounding on hard surfaces, resulting in muscle strain and inflamed tissue. Those children and adolescents involved in soccer, track, or basketball are especially vulnerable. Other additional potential causes of calcaneal apophysitis include obesity, a tight Achilles tendon, and biomechanical problems such as flatfoot or a high-arched foot. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of calcaneal apophysitis may include pain in the back or bottom of the heel, limping, walking on toes, difficulty running, jumping, or participating in usual activities or sports, or pain when the sides of the heel are squeezed.

Diagnosis

To diagnose the cause of the child’s heel pain and rule out other more serious conditions, the foot and ankle surgeon obtains a thorough medical history and asks questions about recent activities. Your podiatrist will also examine your child’s foot and leg. X-rays are often used to evaluate the condition. Other advanced imaging studies and laboratory tests may also be ordered.

Treatment

The doctor may select one or more of the following options to treat your child’s calcaneal apophysitis: 

  • Reduce activity. The child needs to reduce or stop any activity that causes pain.
  • Support the heel. Temporary shoe inserts or custom orthotic devices may provide support for the heel.
  • Medications. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, help reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Physical therapy. Stretching or physical therapy modalities are sometimes used to promote healing of the inflamed issue.
  • Immobilization. In some severe cases of pediatric heel pain, a cast may be used to promote healing while keeping the foot and ankle totally immobile.

Patient Education

Often heel pain in children returns after it has been treated because the heel bone is still growing. Recurrence of heel pain may be a sign of calcaneal apophysitis, or it may indicate a different problem. If your child has a repeat bout of heel pain, be sure to make an appointment with your podiatrist.

Can Calcaneal Apophysitis Be Prevented?

The chances of a child developing heel pain can be reduced by:

  • Avoiding obesity
  • Choosing well-constructed, supportive shoes that are appropriate for the child’s activity
  • Avoiding or limiting wearing of cleated athletic shoes.
  • Avoiding activity beyond a child’s ability.

Are You Looking for a Sever's Disease Expert in Austin, TX?

If you are looking for Sever's disease care, you should reach out to an experienced podiatristAustin Foot and Ankle Specialists can help. Our office provides a wide variety of advanced, effective treatment options for all kinds of painful conditions. Ready to schedule an appointment? Contact us online or call our Austin office at 512.328.8900.