Heel pain in kids

Heel pain, we hear about it in adults all the time, and more and more now in children.

Why is that?
I always tell my patients and their parents that it is a function of activity.
Heel issues are typically overuse injuries, these injuries are caused by soccer, running, basketball, gymnastics, dancing, to name a few. I LOVE that kids are so active today! Introducing your children to exercise is one of the most important things you can do to help ensure a healthy, lifestyle for them. Along with it comes bumps in the road...like heel pain.

So what's a parent to do?

Well, first, you can try to switch their shoes, they may be too small or broken down and it may simply be a padding issue. You can try ice at home (no more than 10 minutes) and some Achilles stretches (like the typical runner's stretch).

BUT...if those don't work and your child is still complaining of pain or favoring the foot, be sure to bring them in to a doctor who knows kids feet. Typical treatments begin with x-rays to rule out a fracture and can include a variety of treatments, including bracing, padding, NSAIDS, physical therapy, and custom orthotics.

The key is early intervention. Just like anything the less severe the symptoms the faster we can make it go away!