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Achilles Tendonitis in Children

Achilles tendonitis is a common condition that is associated with pain and inflammation in the Achilles tendon. The Achilles tendon is the largest in the body, and is located in the heel. It connects the heel to the calf muscle, and each day sustains 1,000 pounds of force while we walk and do daily activities. Achilles tendonitis is common in children, and can be caused either by athletics or by a growth spurt.

  1. Enthesis

    • Enthesis is one particular type of achilles tendonitis that is exclusive to children which occurs commonly. Unlike standard Achilles tendon injuries, the condition is not caused by a specific athletic injury or stretching of the tendon. In enthesis, the inflammation of the heel occurs as a part of a growth spurt.

    Other Causes of Tendonitis

    • Children can also get tendonitis by engaging in certain activities that cause inflammation of the achilles tendon. These activities include performing athletics without properly warming up. If children begin running too quickly from a resting position, this can irritate the tendon and cause the inflammation associated with tendonitis. Running up stairs or up a hill or at an incline can also cause tendonitis. Flexing the calf muscles excessively is another potential cause of Achilles tendonitis in children.

    Symptoms

    • Symptoms of Achilles tendonitis in children include pain in the heel. This pain may appear to begin randomly, if the tendonitis is caused by a growth spurt. It may also begin or appear during or after exercise. The pain may be present all the time, or may exist in short bursts during or after exercise. The joint and the heel bone may become swollen, and the leg may begin to feel somewhat sluggish.

    Treatment

    • The most common treatment for tendonitis in children, especially enthesis, is to rest and restrict movement of the tendon, either by refraining from activities or wearing a brace or both. Stretching before exercise, or during the recovery period, can also help cure achilles tendonitis in children. Over-the-counter pain medications, called NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) can ease pain associated with tendonitis. If the tendonitis is caused by an athletic injury, surgery may be required, but this is rare and is a last resort.

    Prevention

    • While tendonitis caused by growth spurts can't be controlled or prevented, Achilles tendonitis caused by injury can. It is essential to ensure that children wear properly fitting shoes with adequate support, especially when exercising. Children also need to warm up before running, and stretch their calf muscles. A proper cool down is also advised, as is gradually increasing the pace and frequency of athletic activities.

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