Heel pain can affect both adults and children alike. It is rare for it to be the same cause but does happen. Adults are more commonly inflicted with plantar fasciitis while children it is usually attributed to calcaneal apophysitis or Sever’s disease. The big difference is one is usually attributed to over use and the other growing pains. I will discuss both today.
Plantar fasciitis is still the most common reason people seek out a foot and ankle doctor. This presents with pain in the morning or after exercise. Typically it will get worse with time. There is sometimes a change in activity levels. I encourage you to be evaluated as soon as possible. This will decrease the course and make for a quicker recovery. Start at home with simple calf stretches and icing of the heel. Your doctor will give you a more formal program and usually heel pain resolves with conservative measures.
Heel pain in children is fairly common as well. The typical child is 10-14 years old and going through a growth spurt. You hear a lot about Sever’s disease when visiting the doctor’s office but there are a few outlying causes as well so a thorough workup is warranted. It usually begins with pain while walking or with sports. Again calf stretching and icing can go a long way.
If you have heel pain and want an evaluation schedule an appointment with me and I will help you.
Sincerely,
Board Certified Physician & Surgeon
Issaquah’s Top Podiatrist & Foot/Ankle Surgeon
