Iselin’s disease a type of childhood foot pain
For active children and teenagers, foot pain can be a common occurrence. While growing pains are a familiar culprit, sometimes the cause might be a lesser-known condition called Iselin’s disease. Today, we’ll delve into this specific type of foot pain, exploring its causes, symptoms, and most importantly, effective treatment options offered by the podiatry experts at WeTreatFeet Podiatry.
What is Iselin’s Disease?
Iselin’s disease, also known as traction apophysitis of the fifth metatarsal, is an overuse injury affecting the growth plate at the base of the fifth metatarsal bone in the foot. This growth plate, composed of cartilage, is responsible for bone development during childhood. In Iselin’s disease, repetitive stress on this area leads to inflammation and pain.
Who Gets Iselin’s Disease?
This condition primarily affects active children between the ages of 8 and 13 years. Young athletes involved in sports that involve repetitive running, jumping, and pivoting movements, such as soccer, basketball, gymnastics, and dance, are at higher risk. Tight calf muscles can also contribute to the development of Iselin’s disease by placing additional strain on the growth plate.
Symptoms of Iselin’s Disease
The most characteristic symptom of Iselin’s disease is pain along the outer side of the midfoot, particularly near the base of the little toe. This pain often worsens with activity and improves with rest. Other signs may include:
- Swelling and tenderness in the affected area
- Difficulty pushing off the ground while running or jumping
- A limp when walking
Diagnosing Iselin’s Disease at WeTreatFeet Podiatry
At WeTreatFeet Podiatry, our podiatrists diagnose Iselin’s disease through a comprehensive approach:
- Detailed history and physical examination: Your podiatrist will inquire about your child’s symptoms, activity level, and any recent injuries. A thorough physical exam will assess the location and severity of pain, swelling, and tenderness.
- `Imaging studies: X-rays are typically used to visualize the growth plate and identify any abnormalities. In some cases, an MRI scan might be helpful for a more detailed evaluation.
Treating Iselin’s Disease at WeTreatFeet Podiatry
Fortunately, Iselin’s disease is a treatable condition. Here at WeTreatFeet Podiatry, we prioritize conservative treatment approaches to promote healing and prevent recurrence. Our treatment plan for Iselin’s disease may include:
- Rest: Reducing or modifying activities that aggravate the pain is crucial for allowing the growth plate to heal.
- Ice therapy: Applying ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time can help reduce inflammation and pain.
- Compression: Wearing a supportive shoe or brace can provide stability and minimize stress on the growth plate.
- Physical therapy: Stretching exercises for the calf muscles and strengthening exercises for the foot can improve flexibility and support.
- Medication: In some cases, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen might be recommended to manage discomfort.
When Surgery Might be Necessary
While most cases of Iselin’s disease respond well to conservative treatment, in rare instances, surgery might be considered. This would typically involve removing a small portion of inflamed tissue near the growth plate. However, surgery is always a last resort, and our podiatrists at WeTreatFeet Podiatry will only recommend it after exploring all other treatment options.
Preventing Iselin’s Disease
Here are some tips to help prevent Iselin’s disease in young athletes:
- Gradual increase in activity level: Avoid starting a new sport or significantly increasing training intensity too quickly.
- Proper footwear: Ensure your child wears well-fitting shoes with good arch support for their chosen activity.
- Stretching and strengthening exercises: Regularly incorporate calf stretches and foot strengthening exercises into your child’s routine.
- Listening to your body: Encourage your child to communicate any pain they experience and take rest days when necessary.
Living with Iselin’s Disease
Iselin’s disease, while causing discomfort, is not a long-term health concern. With prompt diagnosis and proper treatment from a podiatrist experienced in managing this condition, your child can return to their favorite activities pain-free.
WeTreatFeet Podiatry: Your Partners in Healthy Feet
At WeTreatFeet Podiatry, our team of podiatrists understands the unique needs of growing feet. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive care for children and adolescents experiencing foot and ankle problems, including Iselin’s disease. If your child is experiencing pain in their mid
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