What is it?
Calcaneal Apophysitis is the most common cause of heel pain in active, growing children aged 8-14 years. The condition is caused by small repetitive trauma to the growth plate of the heel bone and is often described as a ‘pulling pain’
What are the symptoms?
- Pain or tenderness in the heel
- Increase in pains with running/ jumping/ playing sports- during and after
- Limping, difficulty walking
- Tight calf muscles
- Pain when walking first thing in the morning
Why did I get it?
Children who are more likely to develop calcaneal apophysitis present with the following risk factors;
- Sudden increase in activity
- High volume of exercise
- Hard playing surfaces/ barefoot running
- Poor foot mechanics
- Previous trauma to heel bone
How is it diagnosed?
A thorough clinical examination/ history will most commonly diagnose calcaneal apophysitis. Depending on the severity of symptoms, in rare cases an x-ray or MRI can help to assess the extent of the damage and to rule out further pathology.
How can I treat it?
- Rest, ice
- Footwear advice/ modifications
- Avoiding going barefoot
- Strapping
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories
- Strengthening/ stretching program
- Custom orthotics
