What causes heel pain in middle school students?

Generally, heel pain in middle school students may be caused by growth and development, excessive activity, flat feet, Achilles tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, and other factors. Symptomatic management such as general treatment and medication may be needed. If discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is recommended for appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Growth and Development

Middle school students are in a peak period of growth and development, during which bones, muscles, and ligaments grow rapidly. Imbalanced growth rates may cause heel pain, especially when bone growth outpaces that of muscles and ligaments, exerting additional pressure on the heel. Regular Achilles tendon stretching exercises are recommended to help relieve muscle tension.

2. Excessive Activity

Middle school students tend to be highly active, and prolonged running, jumping, or other high-intensity activities can overload the heel, leading to aseptic inflammation or muscle strain, resulting in pain accompanied by symptoms such as localized swelling, redness, and limited mobility. It is recommended to reduce physical activity and avoid overusing the feet.

3. Flat Feet

Flat feet refer to underdeveloped arches, which alter the biomechanical structure of the foot, increasing the load on the heel and sole, potentially causing long-term heel pain. Wearing custom orthotic insoles with arch support is recommended to provide additional support and alleviate pain.

4. Achilles Tendinitis

The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Overuse or injury can cause inflammation of the tendon, resulting in pain and stiffness, especially noticeable upon waking in the morning. It is recommended to use medications such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, celecoxib capsules, and indomethacin tablets under a doctor's guidance.

5. Plantar Fasciitis

The plantar fascia is a band of tissue connecting the heel to the toes. Overuse or poor posture can damage this tissue, causing inflammation and pain. Patients often experience severe pain when getting out of bed in the morning or after prolonged rest, with pain gradually decreasing after activity. It is recommended to use medications such as Huoxue Zhitong capsules, prednisone tablets, and celecoxib capsules as directed by a physician to relieve symptoms.

It is recommended that middle school students wear comfortable athletic shoes with good arch support and soft soles, avoiding hard-soled or ill-fitting shoes, which can help alleviate symptoms.