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Children Suffer from Heel Pain Too

Heel pain is a common problem in young children. This is because as children grow and develop, it is easy to injure the growth plate at the back of the heel bone. This growth plate is key to a child’s development as they grow and learn to walk. It is important to take extra special care when a child begins to complain of heel pain. If heel pain is not addressed quickly in young children it can result in permanent deformity or loss of development.

There are many different conditions that can cause heel pain in children. These conditions can be caused to numerous reasons.  All cases should be referred to a podiatrist for examination.

Sever’s disease also known as growth plate inflammation is one of the most common causes of children who suffer from heel pain. This is because the growth plate becomes inflamed and disturbed and causes the nerves to radiate pain signals to the brain.

Apophysitis is another common heel pain problem that occurs in children between the ages of ten and fourteen. It also causes inflammation of the growth plate and can also occur in the knee.

Treatment Your Child’s Heel Pain

A podiatrist should examine your child’s heel right away. This is because children can suffer from an array of different heel problems that can be the root of the pain. Once the podiatrist confirms a diagnosis they will then help to reduce any tension on the tendons and ligaments surrounding the heel and the bone. Sometimes an orthotic is used for this, other times heel lifts are used.

The next step is to reduce inflammation and pain in the heel. Tactics that can be used include ice, stretches, medicine, exercise or physical therapy. In very rare cases immobilization with a cast may be used.

A podiatrist’s goal is to get your child’s foot happy and healthy and to prevent the return of any problems.

If you suspect that your child is suffering from heel pain due to an underlying condition or from a traumatic injury schedule an appointment with a podiatrist right away if you suspect that your child has a heel problem. Call Syracuse Podiatry located in East Syracuse, New York. Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, Dr. Payel Ghosh, and their staff will provide you top quality care and treatment you deserve. Call 315-446-3668 or make an appointment online today.

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