The growth plates of the foot, also known as epiphyseal plates, are crucial components of pediatric and adolescent development. Located at the ends of long bones, these plates enable bones to lengthen as children grow. In this article, we’ll delve into the anatomy, function, potential issues, and treatments related to growth plates of the foot.

Anatomy of Growth Plates

Growth plates are made of cartilage and are found in various locations in the skeletal system, including the foot. Specifically, the metatarsal bones and phalanges contain these growth plates. They serve as zones where new bone tissue is produced until the plates harden, a process known as epiphyseal closure. According to the NIH, this typically occurs by the late teens to early twenties, depending on the individual.

Location and Structure

The growth plates in the foot are located at the ends of the long bones, specifically at the base of the metatarsals and the tops of the toe bones (phalanges). Each growth plate contains a layer of cartilage that grows and divides to elongate the bone, a crucial feature during childhood and adolescence.

Function of Growth Plates

The primary function of the growth plates is to facilitate bone growth. This allows children not only to grow taller but also to develop proper foot structure, which is vital for mobility and posture. Research from the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society indicates that healthy growth plates lead to properly aligned foot bones, crucial for foot function.

Bone Growth Process

On a cellular level, the growth plates consist of chondrocytes, specialized cells that produce cartilage. As a child grows, these cells multiply, and the resulting new cartilage is converted into bone, making the bones longer and stronger. The growth rate can be influenced by hormonal changes during puberty and other factors like nutrition and physical activity.

https://denielfootandanklecenter.com/the-reason-why-kids-shoes-cant-be-sized-upCommon Disorders Related to Growth Plates

While growth plates perform essential functions, they can also be vulnerable to various injuries and conditions.

Growth Plate Injuries

Injuries to the growth plates are common among active children. A fracture in this area may stunt growth or lead to deformities. Typically seen in sports, these injuries require careful management and a proper diagnosis to prevent long-term complications.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s Disease, or calcaneal apophysitis, is a painful injury affecting the heel’s growth plate. This condition is often seen in active children and adolescents engaged in sports that involve running and jumping. Symptoms include heel pain and tenderness, especially after activity, and rest and physical therapy are usually recommended treatments.

Osgood-Schlatter Disease

Though primarily associated with the knees, Osgood-Schlatter disease can indirectly impact the alignment and function of the foot as well. This condition occurs when the growth plate at the tibial tuberosity becomes inflamed. According to the Mayo Clinic, it often leads to leg pain, especially in active adolescents.

Recognizing Symptoms and Seeking Treatment

Awareness of symptoms related to growth plate issues is essential for early diagnosis and treatment.

Signs to Watch For

Common symptoms of growth plate disorders include:

• Pain and tenderness in a specific area of the foot
• Swelling around the growth plate
• Difficulties with walking or running
• Changes in foot structure, observed as flat feet or high arches

If your child exhibits these symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a foot specialist for an accurate diagnosis.

Diagnostic Techniques

Your foot specialist will likely perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging tests, such as X-rays, to evaluate the condition of the growth plates. Radiographic images can provide valuable insights into bone growth and the presence of any injuries.

Conclusion: Importance of Monitoring Growth Plate Health

Understanding the growth plates of the foot is essential for parents, coaches, and healthcare providers. Being aware of their role and potential issues can help prevent long-term complications. Children’s feet should be monitored closely during their growth years, and any concerning symptoms should be addressed promptly. If you have questions regarding your child’s foot health or if you suspect an issue with their growth plates, our experienced team in Houston and Cypress is ready to help. Contact us today for an appointment!

Our Houston and Cypress podiatry team is committed to helping you move comfortably and prevent future foot problems. Call (832) 415-1790 or schedule online at www.denielfootandanklecenter.com.

Related resources

• Lump or Growth on the Side of the Foot — Should You Be Concerned?
• Understanding the Most Common Foot Problems for Women in Houston
• The Importance of Foot Care for Seniors

The post Growth Plates of the Foot: Importance & Care appeared first on DeNiel Foot and Ankle Center - Ejodamen B Shobowale, DPM.

Ankle and foot problems are common in kids because they do a lot of physical activity. It’s easy for the signs and symptoms of underlying foot and ankle problems to go unnoticed because kids are so resilient. Other times, they might not want to tell you that they have foot pain. Or they may be too little to express it. To maintain their foot health, here are five telltale signs that will help you to know if your child is experiencing foot pain.

Signs Your Child Might Have a Foot Problem

Your Child Frequently Falls And Trips

This is something we see a lot with pigeon-toed children. They keep tripping over their own feet. This occurs significantly more often while they are running. Your child may even refuse to run for fear of falling. He wishes to avoid embarrassment, particularly in front of his friends.

Cases like this are simple to handle. To assist in straightening up the feet, I use a gait plate, which is a specialized foot insole. There will be no more pigeon-toes, tripping, or falling. The thing is, gait plates are most effective with younger children, so it’s important to come into the office as soon as possible to check whether this is the best option.

Your Child Wants To Refrain From Participating In Sports

Children cope quite well with pain. They usually manage to get through it. However, while they’re participating in sports, the pain might become unbearable. It gets to the point where they don’t want to play anymore. Nothing is more upsetting to me than a child refusing to do something they like, especially because of discomfort.

Sever’s Disease is one of the most common types of heel pain in kids.  It affects children from eight to fourteen. This is the primary reason why I see children refraining from playing sports. If you check online, the most common remedy is to wait it out and hope it goes away. I’m here to inform you that there is a better way. Your child should feel better in a few weeks, if not sooner, if he or she receives correct treatment.

Your Child Can’t Keep Up With His or Her Peers

Kids like running around in groups. It’s fantastic to watch a bunch of children having fun together. However, there are occasions when you notice a child that is consistently at the back of the group. He tries to keep up but finds it difficult. We may attribute it to the child’s lack of athleticism, but sometimes there is more to it.

If a child has flat feet, running requires more energy. As a result, running causes him to get tired more rapidly, which causes him to slow down. Ask if his feet are troubling him. You may be surprised if he is experiencing foot pain. Bring him inside the office, even though his feet are getting tired. I’ll be able to see him walking and running and determine if there’s anything wrong with his feet. Most of the time, there is a simple solution to the problem.

Your Child Refuses To Show You His Or Her Feet

Plantar warts and ingrown toenails are common in children. When they get worse, they look unsightly. A child will often hide his problems, believing he has done something wrong. Of course, you can’t hold him responsible for it. It’s not his fault!

Check to see whether your child is always wearing socks. Perhaps he doesn’t want you to see his feet, afraid of what you’ll think. Doctors recommend that parents make it a habit to examine their child’s feet beginning at a young age. Check for changes such as calluses, growths, skin discoloration, or redness and swelling around the toenails. Look for any indicators of pain, such as limping. Just keep in mind that everything you discover may be handled at our office.

Your Child Complains Of Pain

For good parenting, we need to be able to filter what our kids say and do. We have to figure out if our child is complaining about something that is true. We are aware that children sometimes complain in order to avoid doing anything else. If your child is complaining about foot pain on a regular basis, you should pay attention to him.

It is never normal for a child to have foot pain.  Although some injuries may seem to be insignificant, get your child’s foot evaluated if pain or swelling persists for more than a few days. The good news is that conservative treatment can address most problems related to the child’s foot.

Dr. Ejodamen Shobowale of DeNiel Foot and Ankle Center specializes in pediatric foot care. She loves seeing children at our Houston podiatry office. It gives her joy to know that she can help them feel better. Please do not hesitate to bring your child in for an urgent appointment.

The post 5 Telltale Signs Of Foot Issues In Children appeared first on DeNiel Foot and Ankle Center - Ejodamen B Shobowale, DPM.