Sadly, this is wrong. Even though children are usually quite flexible, they can encounter pain in one or both of their heels just like an adult. Heel pain in a child, however, is normally different from the kinds an adult might endure. It is true that children are able to have conditions such as Achilles tendinitis or plantar fasciitis, they are far more inclined to sustain swelling of the growth plate in the bone of the heel, a condition referred to as Sever’s disease or calcaneal apophysitis. This is especially true during their younger years when children are growing quickly and regularly giving it their all on the sports field or the playground.

Becoming Aware of Heel Pain

The first action you should take in dealing with a case of pain in the heel of your little one is finding out about it. In a perfect world, your child will let you know that their feet are causing them pain. Regrettably, children are rarely so forthcoming, particularly if they suspect that something might interfere with their fun time. So keep a watchful eye on your kids. If you see some labored walking, notice them favoring one foot over the other, limping, or an unexpected unwillingness to participate in an activity they love, ask them what’s going on.

Pro Tip: Try lightly pressing the sides of your child’s heel. If it causes discomfort, that could be a sign of Sever’s disease.

Resolving Heel Pain

After you have become aware of your child’s heel pain, we strongly encourage you to take her or him to see us here at Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C. On a positive note, the majority of incidents of pain in children’s heels tend to resolve themselves in about a week or so, using only nonsurgical therapy practices.

While your mini-me isn’t going to be thrilled about losing some of their play time, they will be right back at it in no time at all! Call us today to schedule an appointment with one of our reputable doctors, Dr. Scott E. Hughes, Dr. Greg P. Vogt, or Dr. Christine I. Tumele at Foot and Ankle Specialists, PC in Monroe, MI by calling 734-241-0200 or Lambertville, MI by calling 734-856-8900. If you can’t get to us, don’t worry. We make house calls Monday through Thursday and are more than happy to come to see you.