• An irritation and inflammation of the growth plate (apophysis) at the back of the calcaneus (heel bone), where the achilles tendon inserts. In a child, the bones grow from areas called growth plates. The growth plate is made up of cartilage cells, which are softer and more vulnerable to injury than mature bone.

    • Increase in pain during or after activity
    • Pain, swelling, or redness in one or both heels
    • Tenderness and tightness in the back of the heel that feels worse when the area is squeezed
    • Trouble walking
    • Walking or running with a limp or on tip toes
  • During a growth spurt, your child’s heel bone grows faster than the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in her leg. In fact, the heel is one of your child’s first body parts to reach full adult size. When the muscles and tendons can’t grow fast enough to keep up, they are stretched too tight.

  • Unfortunately, children can’t always explain what they’re feeling other than saying it hurts. It is therefore vital for parents and people involved in the child’s upbringing, to pay close attention to the development of your child’s feet.

  • Call us to find out whether your children’s treatment is covered by your private health care provider. There are a few things to consider with your private health fund such as your level of cover, your policy waiting periods, annual limits and fund rules. It is important to know what you are up for prior to your visits to avoid unwanted, expensive surprises.