Summary
- It is a painful inflammation of the heel’s growth plate. It typically affects children between the ages of 8 to 14 years old, because the heel bone is not fully developed until at least age 14. When there is too much repetitive stress on the growth plate, inflammation can develop. Symptoms include pain in the back or bottom of the heel, limping, walking on toes, and difficulty running or jumping.
How did I get this?
- Overuse and stress on the heel bone through participation in sports is a major cause. The heel’s growth plate is sensitive to repeated running and pounding on hard surfaces, resulting in muscle strain and inflamed tissue. For this reason, children and adolescents involved in soccer/football, running, or basketball are especially vulnerable.
What can I do about it?
- Rest.
- Ice pack application.
- Calf and hamstring stretches.
- See a podiatrist.
What help can I get for this?
- Podiatrist will confirm the diagnosis and advise appropriate shoes, exercises, and orthotics.
When will it get better?
- Use of orthotics and supportive footwear usually provide relief within a few weeks.
- The condition is self-limiting. Once the growth plate has closed the condition will resolve.
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