Achilles Apophysitis

Calcaneal Apophysits occurs in juveniles that are usually between the ages of 10 and 13 and are active in sports. It is characterized by pain in one or both heels with walking or running. It was originally thought that it was only seen in adolescent boys. In recent times girls have become more active than previous generations and it is now seen in girls. Patheomchanics for calcaneal apophysitis are the same as for Achilles Tendonitis. However, in apophysitis the weak link is in the growth plate or growth center within the heel bone (not in the tendon to the calcaneous, as in Achilles Tendonitis). 

Compounding to this is the fact that all these changes are happening in a very active child, prone to overuse. The end result is an overuse syndrome of injury and inflammation at the heel where the Achilles tendon inserts to the heel bone. A custom molded biomechanical orthotic to balance the mechanics of the foot is often prescribes as well as heel lifts to reduce tension at the Achilles insertion to the heel bone. P.T.I. Orthotic Laboratory has developed an orthotic device that incorporates a unique cushioning system heel cup within a custom orthotic. This provides the ultimate in shock absorption.