Pediatric Heel pain is a common complaint in children. It is often associated with these signs and symptoms:
- Constant or recurring pain in the back or bottom of the heel
- Limping
- Walking on toes
- Difficulties during usual activities or sports
CAUSES
Calcaneal Apophysitis: This is a condition caused by the inflammation of heel's growth plate due to muscle strain and repetitive stress. It usually causes pain and tenderness at the bottom of the heel while walking and pain is felt on the heel when touched.
Tendo-Achilles Burtis: This is an inflammation of the fluid-filled sac (bursa) located between the Achilles tendon (heel cord) and the heel bone. This is caused by injuries to the heel, certain diseases such as; juvenile rhemuatoid arthritis or by wearing poorly cushioned shoes.
Fractures: In some cases, heel pain results due to an injury in the bone. Hair line fractures resulting from repeated stress on the bone, often occur in adolescents engaged in athletic activities. In children under the age of 10, acute fractures can result from simply jumping from a couch or stairway.
DIAGNOSIS
To diagnose the actual cause of Pediatric heel pain, the doctor first reads a thorough medical history and asks questions about recent activities. X Rays are also used to evaluate the condition and in some cases the bone scan, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) study or CT scan may also be recommended.
