Heel pain in children
Does your child experience pain in the heels while walking or playing sports? Heel pain is common in children between the ages of 8 and 15, especially in active children who run or jump a lot. In this article, you will learn about the causes, how to recognize heel pain, and what you can do to relieve the symptoms.
What is heel pain in children?
Heel pain in children usually develops due to overuse of the growth plate in the heel bone (the calcaneus). This condition is also known as Sever’s disease. It is not a true “disease,” but a temporary inflammation of the growth area in the heel.
Nearly 4 out of 1000 children develop these symptoms during growth. It is therefore a common and well-treatable problem.
Symptoms of heel pain
Children with heel pain often experience the following symptoms:
- Pain at the back or underside of the heel
- Walking on tiptoes or limping
- Avoidance of sports or outdoor play
- Pain mainly after (sports) activities
The symptoms usually worsen with activity and improve with rest.
Causes of heel pain in children
During the growth phase, the heel bone is not yet fully ossified. The growth plate (apophysis) is a vulnerable area where the Achilles tendon attaches. Repeated stress, such as jumping or running, creates traction on this growth plate, which can lead to inflammation.
Tight calf muscles, insufficient cushioning in footwear, or rapid growth spurts can also contribute to the development of heel pain.
Treatment of heel pain in children
Most forms of heel pain in children resolve on their own once the growth phase is complete, but there are several ways to relieve pain and speed up recovery. First of all, rest is important: allow your child to temporarily reduce sports or jumping activities so the heel can recover. In addition, soft heel cushions, such as the Bauerfeind Viscoheel, can absorb shock during walking and reduce pressure on the heel. Insoles with a slight heel lift and good arch support can also help reduce the load on the heel bone.
Sometimes a physiotherapist may recommend stretching exercises for the calf muscles, as these are often shortened in children with heel pain. This reduces tension on the heel. Finally, heel spur insoles can provide extra comfort and cushioning, especially for children who walk or play sports a lot.
Research from the AMC (Dr. J.J. Wiegerinck) shows that a combination of rest, soft insoles with heel lift, and physiotherapy leads to a clear reduction in pain in children with apophysitis calcanei, also known as Sever’s disease.
When should you see a doctor?
In most cases, heel pain resolves on its own within a few months. However, consult a doctor or physiotherapist if your child has symptoms lasting longer than 2 weeks, if there is swelling and/or redness, or if your child is no longer able to walk normally. A professional can determine whether Sever’s disease or another condition is present.
Frequently asked questions about heel pain in children
What is Sever’s disease?
Sever’s disease is an inflammation of the growth plate in the heel bone that occurs in growing children.
Can heel pain in children resolve on its own?
Yes, most children grow out of it. Rest and proper support speed up recovery.
Which aids help with heel pain?
Soft heel cushions, insoles, or heel lifts reduce pressure on the heel and support recovery.
