With the beautiful Blue Mountain resort area all around you, winter can be lots of fun. From skiing to snowboarding to hiking through the snowy woods, there are plenty of activities to stay active in the Collingwood area. If cold temps have kept you inside, though, you and your family may have put on a few extra pounds this winter. Being overweight or obese is hard on our feet, and it’s one of the causes for children’s heel pain.
Heel pain in children is often caused by a condition called Sever’s disease. Children’s bones are still growing, and between the ages of 8 and 14, the sensitive growth plate of the heel is subject to a lot of stress when your child is active. Imagine the extra pressure on this tissue if your child is obese. It makes it hurt to walk, and discourages them from doing anything that makes the pain worse.
If your child’s obesity has led to Sever’s disease, they will need to heal, which may take a little time and rest; but once the pain has subsided, it’s crucial for them to get their weight under control. You can help: provide plenty of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables in their diets, and don’t keep sweets and soft drinks around the house. Model an active lifestyle for them—go for hikes and walks together, or encourage them to participate in the spring sports coming up in a few weeks.
If you are concerned about how your child’s weight problem is affecting his or her feet, schedule a visit to Abbott Foot & Ankle Clinic in Collingwood, ON. Chiropodist Tony Abbott specializes in heel pain. He can give you many helpful hints about weight control and keeping healthy by staying active. Call us today at 705-444-9929, or request an appointment online.
Photo credit: Clare Bloomfield via freedigitalphotos.net