Most cases of growing pains in the child are benign and they come right, but on rare occasions the symptoms are the same as some pretty nasty things, so for thos reason all cases of growing pains have to be taken seriously and properly investigated.
Calcaneal Apophysitis is also called Severs Disease and is a common condition of the growth plate at the back of the heel bone in kids.The pain is present at the back and sides of the heel, usually worse after sports activity. As it is a problem with the growth plate, it will come right on its own as the child’s growth in the heel bone stops. It is most commonly treated with a cushioned heel inserts and is a self limiting problem that eventually comes right by itself.
This video from PodChatLive was a good discussion on Calcaneal Apophysitis with an expert in the topic for those who want a deep dive into the topic:
For other videos on Severs disease, see PodiatryTube.
The accessory navicular is an extra bone on the medial side of the navicular that can cause pain due to pressure on the lump from footwear (especially things like ice skates) and also be a factor in flat or overpronated feet due to changes in the pull of the tendon from the muscle that is the main supporter of the arch of the foot.
Gowers Sign is an indicator of several neurological problems such as Duchennes Muscular Dystrophy. It is due to the weakness of the proximal muscles. The child as to raise from the ground from a supine position and use the hands to climb up the legs.
Severs disease or calcaneal apophysitis is a common problem causing pain in the heel of kids; it is an overuse type injury to the growth plate at the back of the heel bone. It is a self limiting problem that always comes right eventually when the growth in the heel bone stops. Several treatments have been advocated for it treatment. One of these is a dietary supplement called Oscon which consists of selenium and vitamin E. It is only supported by the use of testimonials and no clinical study has been done on it. It is not clear if it is worth trying or not as most children do get the minimum dietary requirements for Vitamin E and Selenium from their normal daily intake.
The best treatment for Severs disease is generally managing the activity levels and using a cushioned heel raise.