Apophysitis Calcanei

What is Apophysitis Calcanei? This condition occurs mainly in active children aged 8 to 15 years old. The site at which the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel becomes inflammed and the bone starts to crumble (a lot like Osgood Schlatters disease of the knee). It is often associated with a rapid growth spurt. As the bones get longer, the muscles and tendons become tighter. This is the second most common injury of this type seen in youngsters after Osgood Schlatter's of the knee. Symptoms of this injury include: Pain at the back of the heel when walking and running. Possibly a lump at the back of the heel although this might be minimal. Pain and tenderness at the back of the heel, especially if you press in or give it a squeeze from the sides. Tight Gastrocnemius or Soleus muscles. What can the athlete do? Rest and apply ice or cold therapy. Do not apply ice directly to the skin but wrap in a wet tea towel to avoid ice burns. See a sports injury professional who can advise on rehabilitation. What can a doctor, sports therapist or physiotherapist do? Apply a plaster cast if it is painful. This should give relief of pain for a while. Carry out a full biomechanical assessment. In persistent cases X-rays may be taken but this is not usual. A doctor, sports therapist or physiotherapist will NOT: Give a Steroid Injection Operate - as they are both unsuitable as treatment.   The information contained on this site is purely a source of information and can at no time replace the expert eye of a qualified professional. We recommend seeking professional advice before embarking on any form of self treatment. Neither the content or nor any other service provided through mybesttennis.com is intended to be relied on for medical diagnosis or treatment. Never delay in seeking professional advice because of something seen on mybesttennis.com.