It is a common sight for many parents: one day your child is sprinting across the soccer field, and the next, they are hobbling toward the car or complaining that their shoes feel wrong. When your kid mentions heel pain, it is easy to assume they just took a hard landing or need new sneakers. However, pediatric heel pain to us at Podiatry Center of New Jersey is more complex than the typical aches adults deal with.

Here is a guide to why your child’s heel might be hurting, and when you should take that next step toward a professional opinion.

Sever’s Disease

A common pediatric foot issue, this overuse injury is called calcaneal apophysitis, and it happens when the growth plate in the back of the heel becomes inflamed.

Because children’s bones often grow faster than their muscles and tendons, the Achilles tendon can become tight, so when your child runs or jumps, that tight tendon pulls on the heel’s growth plate.

Other Reasons for Sore Heels in Kids

While Sever’s is the top suspect, it isn’t the only one. You should also consider:

  • Achilles Tendonitis: Just like adults, kids can overwork the tendon that connects the calf to the heel, especially if they suddenly increase their activity level.
  • Plantar Fasciitis: Though less common in children than adults, kids with flat feet or high arches can strain the band of tissue under the foot.
  • Stress Fractures: If your child is a high-impact athlete and the pain is pinpointed to one specific spot that doesn’t get better with rest, a small crack in the bone could be the issue.

When To Take Your Child to a Podiatrist for Heel Pain

As a parent, you might wonder if you should wait for them to grow out of it or if you need to book an appointment immediately.

Try Home Care First If…

If the pain is mild and only happens after a long day of play, you can start with rest, ice, and calf stretches. Switching to more supportive cleats can also make a huge difference.

And, if the pain vanishes after a few days of taking it easy, you might be in the clear.

See a Podiatrist If…

  1. The pain causes a visible limp
  2. They are avoiding their favorite sports
  3. There is swelling or redness around the heel
  4. The pain is present even when they are sitting down

A podiatrist can provide a definitive diagnosis and offer solutions like custom orthotics, specialized stretching routines, or temporary activity modifications.

Bringing them in now can prevent long-term gait problems as they grow into adulthood.

If you have more questions about foot care or want to address specific concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to the expert team at Podiatry Center of New Jersey! Give us a call at (973) 925-4111 or make an appointment online.