Has your child recently complained of heel pain, primarily along the back of the heel? This condition can occur in children between the ages of 10-13 and is commonly referred to as “Growing Pains”.
They occur due to the traction (pull) that the Achilles tendon exerts on the growth plate along the back of the heel. Additionally, this is a very active time in a child’s life and is prior to the time skeletal maturity is reached (and closure of growth plates is achieved).
Although growing pains can last for weeks and months, they are completely normal and self-resolving most of the time.
Treatments include:
– Rest and ice (20 min on, 20 min off)
– Avoid barefoot walking
– Shoes with a higher heel than toe (heel lifts/wedges work well)
– NSAIDs (don’t take longer than 2 weeks at a time)
If your child’s symptoms are causing excessive discomfort and is affecting their quality of life, call our office and see a specialist today.
