Summer is almost over, which means back to school season is here! When we think of going back to school, we think of school sports, especially football. It’s great for your kids to be active in sports, but if they have heel pain they should consider resting their feet for a while. The most common cause of heel pain in children is Sever’s disease. This condition is very treatable, but it does require some care.
Sever’s disease affects children who are of adolescent age. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed, usually because the heel bone (calcaneus) is growing at a faster rate than the muscles and tendons surrounding it. The muscles stretch very tight and put more pressure on the growth plate, which in turn causes the inflammation. For children who are more active, overweight, or have flat feet, this problem is exacerbated due to the excess strain put on their feet.
Treatment will usually involve rest, which can be hard for physically active children. While they are healing they are encouraged to participate in lower-impact activity, such as swimming or cycling. Once they are completely healed they may go back to their sport, perhaps with the addition of a custom orthotic to provide more padding in the heel area.
Sever’s disease doesn’t leave any lasting damage, so the main goal of treatment is to ease their pain until they heal. This can include the use of ice, compression stockings, elevation, doctor-prescribed medication, and stretches. Any of these can be used in combination with each other if recommended by your doctor. Also, as an important reminder, never give your child aspirin without a doctor’s permission.
If you would like more tips and information on how to treat Sever’s disease so your child can stop suffering, call Dr. Peyman Elison and Dr. Viedra Elison at (623) 584-5556 to make your appointment at Fixing Feet Institute in Surprise, AZ today. We know how important your family is to you, and we guarantee you the best possible care.
