Heel pain is a common occurrence among children especially during their early growing years. However it is more of a warning sign rather than a disease, indicative of an underlying disorder.
How can heel pain be detected?
The pain manifests as a dull throbbing in the heel generally at the back. Most children may not notice the pain at first but as it increases will cause a slight limp while walking. If you find your child walking on the toes it could be because of pain in the heel. Also a child with discomfort in the heel region would find it difficult to participate in activities like sports.
Difference between Pediatric and Adult Heel Pain
The condition is observed among adults as well as children. However the causes and nature of pain is quite different. While in adults the condition could be because of arthritis or deterioration with age (plantar fasciitis), in children it occurs due to the tenderness of the heel which strengthens as the child grows.
The heel at this age especially the underside is in a growing phase and vulnerable to damage. The most common reasons are sustained pressure due to physical exertions like walking for a long time and high body mass index linked to obesity.
Children in the age group from 8-14 years have more of a disposition toward the condition. Plantar fasciitis which is observed in adults causes pain in bouts usually in the morning or after sitting in one place for a long time. Pediatric heel pain observed in children though does not subside and increases with any activity.
The causes of heel pain in children are as follows
Injuries to the heel
Poorly fitting and thin soled shoes
Muscle strain and repetitive stress due to overuse
Running or walking on hard surfaces
Diseases like juvenile arthritis and tendonitis
Obesity
Stress or hairline fractures
A podiatric surgeon is best qualified to diagnose and treat heel pain in children. Diagnosis will involve going through the patients medical history and asking questions about level of physical activity. An X-ray image or bone scan using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computerized tomography (CT scan) will give a clear picture of the condition.
The treatment for pediatric heel pain would depend on the intensity and cause of pain.
Reduction in physical activity
Using properly cushioned footwear
Medications like non-steroidal anti inflammatory drugs for example ibuprofen
Physical therapy
Reduction in weight
Placing the foot in a cast
Use of orthotic devices
Surgery
Heel pain in children is generally a recurring condition continuing till the bone grows fully. The causes could be different at different ages and would need treatment accordingly. If the bouts of heel pain occur frequently and the discomfort does not subside visiting a podiatric surgeon is highly recommended.
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