Calcaneal Apophysitis is a condition that causes heel pain mostly in children that is worsened by running and jumping. In definition, the calcaneus is the term for the heel bone, and the apophysis is the growth plate on the heel bone in people who are still growing such as children and teenagers. Calcaneal Apophysitis, also known as Sever’s Disease, happens when the heal bone grows faster than the tendons, causing so much tension on the heel bone that it becomes inflamed. During this time, the patient should rest and avoid activities that will further stress the heel. Not only is there pain, but the risk of injury to the growing heel bone is very high.
Since this is a disorder caused while growing, it is self-recovering. The patient will have to rest a few days to about a week. By then, the heel should be in no more pain while walking or playing. Exercise can be returned to very gradually, and if pain persists, rests in three day intervals should be implemented. Eventually, the patient should return to normal. As temporary as this condition is, pain relief along the way of recovery is much preferred. We offer supports, shoe inserts for the heel and foot arch, and heat and cold packs.
