apophysitis calcaneus

apophysitis calcaneus Inflammation of the growth plate of the calcaneus, the bone at the back of the heel, where the Achilles tendon attaches. Apophysitis calcaneus occurs mainly in older children and adolescents, especially active boys. It can be very painful, although it may be dismissed as “growing pains.” Treatment includes activity limitation, medication, shoe inserts, heel lifts, and sometimes casting if it becomes especially severe. Fortunately, it usually disappears as the child gets older. Also known as Sever condition. See also Achilles tendon.