Children’s Foot Pain Treatment
Growing pains are a common cause of leg and foot discomfort in active children, typically occurring between the ages of 10–16. These symptoms are often seen in children with hypermobile joints or flat feet and are usually linked to increased physical activity.
While often considered a normal part of development, ongoing pain should not be ignored, especially if it begins to affect your child’s daily activities or sports performance.
Common Causes of Growing Pains in Children
Growing pains are often related to stress placed on developing bones, muscles, and tendons. In many cases, the pain is linked to specific conditions affecting the feet and knees.
One of the most common causes of heel pain in children is Sever’s disease, which affects the growth plate at the back of the heel. This occurs where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel bone and is especially common in active children whose bones are still developing.
Another common condition is Osgood-Schlatter disease, which causes pain just below the kneecap. Like heel pain, it is linked to repetitive stress and high levels of activity during growth phases.
Symptoms of Growing Pains
Children experiencing growing pains may report:
- Aching or throbbing pain in the legs, heels, or knees
- Discomfort after sports or physical activity
- Tenderness in the heel or below the kneecap
- Pain that may come and go, often worse at night
Treatment for Growing Pains in Our Perth Clinics
Treatment focuses on reducing strain on growing joints and supporting healthy movement.
Short-term relief may include rest, ice application, and activity modification to allow the affected area to recover.
Long-term management may include:
- Custom orthotics to support flat feet and improve alignment
- Stretching programs to reduce muscle tightness
- Supportive footwear recommendations
- Bracing if required for more severe cases
When to See Our Podiatrist
If your child is experiencing persistent heel, knee, or foot pain, it’s important to seek professional advice. Our podiatrists can assess your child’s foot structure, identify the underlying cause, and provide a treatment and personalised treatment plan to support healthy growth and prevent ongoing pain.