Heel pain is one of the most common complaints from patients. While heel spurs may or may not show up on an x-ray, the spurs themselves are a result of the actual problem: plantar fasciitis.
This can be a major issue with pediatric patients as well. Symptoms to look out for in pediatric patients are pain in their heel, limping and toe-walking. This can be due to Calcaneal Apophysitis or Sever’s disease. This disease is the inflammation of the growth plate of the heel.
Symptoms
- Pain on the bottom of heel
- Pain that is usually worse upon arising
- Pain that increases over a period of months
Treatment options for both adults and children are very similar such as reducing activity level, NSAIDS such as ibuprofen to help reduce inflammation, physical therapy to help with strengthening and stretching. Custom foot orthotics can be a good choice as well to support the foot properly.
This information is provided by the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.