Pediatric Heel Pain Specialist
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Kazmer Foot & Ankle Centers
Gary M. Kazmer, DPM
Podiatrist located in Elgin, IL & Barrington, IL
Children frequently experience foot problems that cause heel pain, tenderness, or trouble walking. As a father and a board-certified physician, Dr. Gary M. Kazmer, DPM, treats the pediatric patients at his locations in Elgin and Barrington, Illinois, with compassionate and experienced care. With 24 years of experience, Dr. Kazmer quickly corrects issues before they become lifelong problems. To help your child stay pain-free, contact the closest office today or book online.
Pediatric Heel Pain Q & A
What causes heel pain in children?
Some conditions are hereditary, but others happen from repeated overuse. Over 45 million children are involved in some form of organized sport in the United States today. Many programs require vigorous training schedules and practices. It is common for children to develop heel pain from such demanding activities.
How can I tell if my child has heel pain?
Children may not have the ability to describe exactly what is wrong with their feet. You can look for these symptoms:
- limping
- toe walking
- tender spots on the heels or backs of the leg
- tightness on the arch of the foot
- swelling or redness in the heel
What are the most common medical reasons for heel pain?
The most common conditions related to children’s heel pain are Sever’s disease and Achilles tendonitis. Both conditions are caused by repeated jumping, pivoting, or running in sports like basketball, soccer, and dancing. Sever’s disease is the most common of the two, happening when the growth plate on the heel is inflamed. Achilles tendonitis is caused by inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the heel and the calf. There is more risk for this at the beginning of a sports season, when a running or jumping activity is suddenly added. Seeing your podiatrist is important to obtain the correct diagnosis and rule out fractures or sprains.
What are some ways for children to prevent heel pain?
There are several suggestions for kids to avoid heel pain. Some popular methods are:
- wearing proper shoes
- gradually building up into a new physical activity
- stretching properly before exercise.
- performing cool down exercises
- stopping play if they feel any foot pain
How can a podiatrist help my child?
Kazmer Foot & Ankle Centers provide the early intervention needed to stop problems before they are lifelong issues. With MRI and CT scans available onsite, plus facilities for reconstructive foot and ankle surgery, cosmetic procedures, and the treatment of sports injuries, the office is a comprehensive foot care facility.
Dr. Gary M. Kazmer, DPM, makes the correct diagnosis and starts your child on a conservative therapy plan, working with their own healing to bring heel pain relief. Dr. Kazmer believes in using surgery as a last resort and employs other methods to alleviate heel pain in his pediatric patients.
If your child is experiencing heel pain, it is important to identify the problem and form a treatment plan. Call us to schedule your appointment with Dr. Kazmer or simply book online.
