As parents, it is natural to be concerned when your child complains of foot pain, especially if they are active in sports. One possible cause of such pain, particularly in growing children and adolescents, is Iselin disease. This blog aims to shed light on what Iselin disease is, its symptoms, its causes, and how it can be managed to ensure your child’s swift return to their favorite activities!
What is Iselin Disease?
Iselin disease, also known as apophysitis of the fifth metatarsal base, is an overuse injury that affects the growth plate located at the base of the fifth metatarsal bone in the foot. Children suffering from Iselin disease will complain of pain on the outside of their foot. Parents may notice a lump corresponding to the area of pain. This condition primarily affects children and adolescents who are still growing, as their growth plates are more susceptible to injury.
Causes of Iselin Disease
The primary cause of Iselin disease is repetitive stress and overuse of the foot, which is common in children who are actively involved in sports such as soccer, basketball, gymnastics, and dance. These activities place a significant amount of pressure on the feet, particularly on the outer side where the fifth metatarsal is located.
The repetitive stress can lead to inflammation and irritation of the growth plate, resulting in pain and discomfort. In addition to the repetitive stress, children with tight calf muscles, and arches that are overly flat or overly high will be more susceptible to this condition.
Symptoms to Watch For
Recognizing the symptoms of Iselin disease is crucial for early intervention and management. The most common symptoms include:
Pain and Tenderness: The child may experience pain on the outer side of the foot, particularly around the base of the fifth metatarsal. This pain often worsens with physical activity and improves with rest.
Swelling: Mild swelling may be present in the affected area. This will be visible when compared to the unaffected side and can impact a child’s ability to wear sports shoes.
Difficulty Walking: Due to the pain, the child may have difficulty walking or may limp. You may see them favoring the inside of the foot, while they walk. You might also notice them having a challenging time keeping up with their friends on the field.
Redness and Warmth: The area around the affected bone may appear slightly red and feel warm to the touch.
Diagnosis
If you suspect your child may have Iselin disease, it is important to consult with one of our podiatrists! The diagnosis typically involves a physical examination of the foot, and a review of the child’s activity levels and symptoms. Your child may also be asked to walk or run during a gait analysis to identify underlying musculoskeletal abnormalities contributing to the development of Iselin disease. In some cases, an X-ray or other imaging tests may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other possible conditions.
Treatment and Management
The good news is that Iselin disease is a self-limiting condition, meaning it typically resolves on its own with proper management. The recovery period will vary per child. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and reducing stress on the affected foot. Here are some of our recommended approaches:
Rest: Reducing or avoiding activities that cause pain is crucial. This may involve taking a break from sports and high-impact activities until the symptoms subside.
Ice: Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce pain and swelling. Ice acts as a natural anti-inflammatory and can reduce the symptoms of pain.
Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can be used to manage pain and inflammation.
Supportive Footwear: Wearing well-cushioned and supportive shoes can help reduce stress on the foot. We often see children with this condition wearing slide sandals or other non-supportive shoes, which will make the condition worse.
Orthotics: In some cases, custom orthotic inserts may be recommended to provide additional support and relieve pressure on the growth plate. Custom orthotics can be used to address underlying biomechanical abnormalities leading to the condition.
Physical Therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises prescribed by a doctor to be done at home or at physical therapy can aid in recovery and prevent future injuries.
Preventing Iselin Disease
Prevention is key, especially for active children. Here are some tips to help reduce the risk of developing Iselin disease:
Gradual Increase in Activity: Encourage gradual increases in activity levels rather than sudden and sharp increases. Allowing children to work up to the necessary volume of exercise for their sport will prevent overuse injuries.
Proper Footwear: Ensure your child wears appropriate, supportive footwear for their activities and outside of their sports. Avoiding flimsy and flexible shoe gear, no matter how convenient, can prevent many foot-related problems.
Warm-Up and Stretching: Encourage proper warm-up routines and stretching exercises before and after physical activities. Ensure children are completing dynamic warm-ups prior to starting their sport. Proper cool down and stretching after activity are important too.
Balanced Activities: Promote a balanced approach to physical activities, allowing for adequate rest and recovery time. Consider allowing your children to participate in different sports, rather than a single sport year-round.
Conclusion
Iselin disease, while painful and concerning, is a manageable condition that usually resolves with proper care and rest. If your child is experiencing symptoms of Iselin disease or any other foot pain, it is essential to consult with one of our podiatrists here at Bayshore Podiatry for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan. By understanding the condition and following recommended preventive measures, you can help your child stay active and pain-free.
For more information on foot health and related conditions, visit our website or schedule an appointment with our experienced podiatrists today. We treat all of our patients as individual cases and will develop a treatment plan specific to your child’s needs. Your child’s foot health is our priority!