Why does my soccer player have heel pain

Why does my soccer player have heel pain? • The condition is known as Sever’s Disease, an overuse injury • Heel pain is common in the 10 -15 age group • Complaints of pain on the back of the heel and a limp are typical of the problem • Different from plantar fasciitis which is common in adults

Sever’s disease • The growth spurts in this age group cause higher tension on the tendons • Increased running and jumping further increases stress on the growth plate in the heel bone

Treatment and Prevention • Stretching • Rest (no running) 2 -4 weeks if pain is unrelenting • Ice after activity • Ibuprofen • Tuli’s heel cups can help symptoms by cushioning and elevating the heel (available at drugstores)

• Yes, your child will grow out of the problem as they get close to skeletal maturity • There are no long term consequences • Links for more information: – http: //www. reconortho. com/topics. aspx? t=10 b 2 d 8 7 b 4 e 50 c 651 ce 89 e 6 b 36 b 0 a 7842&c=46 – http: //www. athleticadvisor. com/Injuries/LE/Foot&A nkle/sever's_disease. htm

• As always, this information is no substitute for proper medical care. Only your licensed health care professional can differentiate Sever’s from other sources of heel pain • This has been a message from your Warren County Soccer Club Health and Fitness Committee