Heel pain is fairly common in children and can have a variety of causes. Most pediatric heel pain is due to injury, and it is typically not serious. Three frequent causes of heel pain are Sever’s disease, Achilles tendonitis, and plantar fasciitis. Sever’s disease, an overuse injury that affects the growth plate of the heel bone, is the most common cause of heel pain in children between the ages of 5 and 11 who participate in sports. Achilles tendinitis is an inflammation of the Achilles tendon in the back of the lower leg and can cause pain, swelling, warmth, and difficulty walking. Plantar fasciitis is an overuse injury that affects the plantar fascia ligament along the bottom of the foot. If your child complains of heel pain, it is recommended that you take them to a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat their condition.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Abeer M. Foteh, DPM of Greater Houston Foot Centers. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Baytown, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.