As parents, it's not uncommon to hear our children complain about "growing pains" during their developmental years. While these pains are a common childhood experience, many parents may not fully understand their causes and implications. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve deeper into what growing pains are, their underlying causes, and explore a more serious condition known as traction apophysitis that can develop from untreated growing pains. Our aim is to equip parents with essential knowledge about these conditions, the signs and symptoms to watch out for, and effective methods to manage and prevent them. Additionally, we will introduce a specialized brace designed to aid in the management of Severs Disease, a common form of traction apophysitis affecting the heels.
What are Growing Pains and Their Causes?
Growing pains refer to the discomfort experienced by children during their bone growth process, particularly at various growth plate sites throughout their bodies. Children's bones are different from those of adults in that they are softer and not fully fused, making them more susceptible to inflammatory bone injuries and incomplete fractures.
During growth spurts, the body deposits calcium at these growth sites while inflammation aids in the bone development process. These combined factors contribute to the sensations of pain and discomfort that children may experience as they grow.
Growing pains are often felt as bone or joint pain, with the legs, especially around the knees and heels, being common areas for discomfort. This is because these areas experience rapid spurts of growth and endure significant forces during everyday movements. The pains are typically more prominent at night and may even wake the child from sleep.
While growing pains are generally harmless and tend to subside as children grow older and their bones fuse, it's essential to pay attention to the severity of the pain. If the pain becomes severe and begins to interfere with the child's daily activities, seeking medical attention is crucial. In some cases, growing pains may be an indication of a more serious condition called traction apophysitis.
Traction Apophysitis: A More Serious Concern
Traction apophysitis can develop from untreated or aggravated growing pains. This condition results from a combination of growth spurts, increased physical activity, and insufficient rest periods for bone healing.
In simple terms, traction apophysitis occurs when the muscles attached to a bone become overly tight and inflamed, leading to the tendon pulling on the bone during physical activity. Over time, this constant pulling can cause inflammation and micro-tears in the affected area. If left untreated, the bone may remodel, forming lumps or spurs, and in severe cases, it can lead to avulsion fractures, where the bone is pulled away from the muscle and tendon attachment site of the growth plate.
Unlike growing pains, traction apophysitis symptoms can worsen with less strenuous activity and may persist even after the activity has ceased. The affected areas are highly tender to touch, and rest alone may not be sufficient for complete healing.
Traction apophysitis can occur at various sites in the body, but it most commonly affects the heels, knees, and hips. Early detection and treatment of related conditions like Severs Disease (a form of heel traction apophysitis) and Osgood Schlatters (a form of knee traction apophysitis) are vital to prevent traction apophysitis from becoming a chronic issue or leading to fractures.
Managing Severs Disease with Our Specialized Brace
Severs Disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a prevalent cause of heel pain in children. Although not a lifelong condition, it can significantly impact a child's physical activities and interactions with family and friends. To address this issue, our Severs Sleeve Brace has been carefully designed to alleviate bone pain in children.
The compression knit material of our Sever's Sleeve Brace functions like a sock, reducing inflammation and promoting healing in the affected area. Additionally, the brace provides gentle compression to ease pain, offering a tailored experience for each user through its stitched pulley and adjustable dial settings. These features create an optimal environment for pain relief and support the development of a strong foundation for a pain-free, active lifestyle.
However, we emphasize the importance of using our brace in conjunction with the guidance and support of healthcare professionals who can provide manual therapy and progressive loading strategies when appropriate. This approach ensures effective condition management, optimized healing, and minimizes the risk of recurring injuries.
Final Thoughts
As parents, understanding growing pains and traction apophysitis is essential for providing appropriate care to our children. While growing pains are typically harmless and subside with time, they can indicate underlying issues that require medical attention. Traction apophysitis, a more serious condition, can develop if left untreated and can cause significant discomfort and potential fractures.
In cases of Severs Disease, our specialized Sever's Sleeve Brace offers a practical solution to manage pain and support your child's healing journey. Alongside professional guidance, our brace allows your child to return to an active and fulfilling life, spending more time with family and friends.
Prioritizing your child's health and well-being is of utmost importance, and by staying informed and taking appropriate measures, you can ensure a happy and healthy childhood for your growing child. Remember to consult with healthcare professionals if you have any concerns about your child's bone health or experience any persistent pain or discomfort. With the right knowledge and proactive care, we can support our children's growth and development, ensuring they lead vibrant, active lives for years to come.
From Pain to Performance
The Orthopaedic Sleeve Society (TOSS)