Adolescent heel pain associated with running and jumping
Also known as traction apophysitis, this condition mainly affects school aged children because it relates to pathological failure of the attachment of the Achilles tendon to the growing heel bone beneath. There is a growth plate in the calcaneus bone near this attachment point, which makes it look like there is a fracture present on xray. This is a normal appearance, unless there is displacement, in which case orthopedic consultation and immobilization is required. Usually, the problem is easy enough to manage just with a heel lift in the shoe to reduce the pull of the tendon, and rest from sport. Soft tissue work is done where necessary.