Dr. Timothy Young, a Board-Certified Foot Surgeon Discusses Achilles Tendon Problems in Children
We see a lot of pediatric sports related injuries and conditions at our clinic. Achilles tendon problems are one of the common problems. This is often thought of as a problem for adults. The children that come in with these problems are often adolescent athletes. There are several variations of Achilles problems. Classically Achilles tendon problems involve the narrow part of the tendon above the heel where you can feel the tendon itself and this is called the watershed region. There are also problems where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel bone. And this also can also affect the growth plate of the heel bone (calcaneus) which is a common problem for children called Severs disease or calcaneal apophysitis.
There can be overlap between Severs Disease (growth plate irritation) and irritation of the Achilles tendon at the insertion, because there is such close proximity to both. In many cases treatment for calcaneal apophysitis and Achilles tendon problems are very similar. In fact a tight calf muscle or Achilles tendon can be a causative factor in calcaneal apophysitis. Therefore stretching the calf muscle and night splint use can be very helpful. There are special braces that can help Achilles tendon problems and they also can support and help treat calcaneal apophysitis.
Biomechanics can also factor into this, and either having a high arch or low arch can both exacerbate both conditions. Therefore treatments with supportive athletic shoes, over-the-counter high-level arch supports and prescription orthotics can be effective treatments. The bottom line, is that as with most medical conditions, appropriate diagnosis and treatment can be very effective. And there are many treatment options.
If you are experiencing foot or ankle pain, please give us a call at 425-391-8666 or make an appointment online today.
There can be overlap between Severs Disease (growth plate irritation) and irritation of the Achilles tendon at the insertion, because there is such close proximity to both. In many cases treatment for calcaneal apophysitis and Achilles tendon problems are very similar. In fact a tight calf muscle or Achilles tendon can be a causative factor in calcaneal apophysitis. Therefore stretching the calf muscle and night splint use can be very helpful. There are special braces that can help Achilles tendon problems and they also can support and help treat calcaneal apophysitis.
Biomechanics can also factor into this, and either having a high arch or low arch can both exacerbate both conditions. Therefore treatments with supportive athletic shoes, over-the-counter high-level arch supports and prescription orthotics can be effective treatments. The bottom line, is that as with most medical conditions, appropriate diagnosis and treatment can be very effective. And there are many treatment options.
If you are experiencing foot or ankle pain, please give us a call at 425-391-8666 or make an appointment online today.
