Understanding the Culprits Behind the Pain
As a concerned parent, you might be wondering why your active and growing child is experiencing those mysterious knee or heel pains.
The answer lies in the incredible growth spurts that adolescents go through.
During this phase, bones grow rapidly, often outpacing the muscles and tendons that support them. This imbalance puts excessive stress on certain points, triggering Osgood-Schlatter’s in the knee and Sever’s in the heel.
It’s like a tiny hiccup in their otherwise amazing growth journey, that we can manage together, so your child/teenager can enjoy and participate in their sporting and movement activities.
Decoding the Pain Experience for Parents
Empathy is key as we listen to your child describe their aches and pains. Osgood-Schlatter’s pain usually centres below the kneecap tendon and right at the top of the shin, while Sever’s pain radiates from the back of the heel.
Activities that involve running, jumping, or sudden movements tend to worsen the discomfort and often take a few days to a week to settle back down.
It is hard on our children but they need to know this pain isn’t their fault – it’s a result of their incredible growth spurt combined with their active lifestyle.
It’s a sign that they’re pushing their limits, which is great, but their bodies just need a little extra care.
Managing the Roller Coaster of Symptoms
You might have heard about “cures,” but here’s the truth: managing symptoms is the key.
These growth-related issues don’t disappear overnight. Instead of aiming to erase the pain completely, we always focus on making your child’s condition manageable. Rest assured, your child can continue their activities with balance and the right approach.
This might mean adjusting their routines, incorporating gentle exercises, and allowing for sufficient rest. It’s all about striking the right balance.
Your Partner in Healing: The Physiotherapist’s Role
Enter the physiotherapist – your family’s own personal ally in this journey.
At Inform Physio Care, we specialise in understanding the intricacies of adolescent growth and pain. We’ll sit with you all, and work through the in’s and out’s of what is happening to create a personalised plan that addresses your child’s unique situation. From targeted exercises that strengthen the supporting muscles and the entire leg, to advice on activity modification and symptom management,, an Inform Physio Care physiotherapist ensures your child’s progress is both safe and effective.
Building a Strong Foundation: Tips for Supporting Your Child’s Recovery
Patience is paramount. Progress might be gradual, but every step counts.
Encourage your child to actively participate in their recovery.
Teach them the importance of listening to their bodies and communicating any changes in pain.
With your support and their determination, they’ll emerge from this experience with newfound resilience and an understanding of how to care for their bodies as they progress through their sporting and life journey.
Thriving Beyond the Pain: Embracing a Resilient Future
The journey doesn’t end with pain relief. Overcoming Osgood-Schlatter’s & Sever’s teaches valuable life lessons – persistence, patience, and the power of adaptation. As your child navigates these challenges, they’re building a foundation for a bright sporting and movement-based future.
Encourage them to stay active in a way that respects their body’s signals.
With the right guidance, they’ll continue to chase their dreams while embodying the spirit of resilience.
Remember, you’re not alone in this journey.
By understanding the reasons behind these growth-related pains, managing symptoms, and collaborating with a physiotherapist, you’re setting your child up for success.
Embrace the process, celebrate the progress, and watch your child thrive beyond the pain.
